The husband of a popular Dublin Garda who tragically died at the start of January has paid a heartbreaking tribute to his partner.
South Dublin based officer Alan Leblique was laid to rest on January 11 with his husband Patrick among the small amount of mourners who were in attendance at the Covid restricted funeral.
Alan Leblique, Garda F390, featured in a vile, viral Gemma O'Doherty video last April during the first lockdown, in which he politely told her that she did not speak for the people of Ireland.
His partner Patrick spoke to The Belfast Telegraph and admitted that he doesn't know if Alan's death has "completely hit me yet".
He said: "I have lost my best friend as well as my husband. He was everything to me and now I am alone."
Alan is survived by his beloved husband Patrick, his mum Sheila Parker, step-father Kevin and his brothers Gerry, Stephen and Paul.
Following his tragic passing, Alan, who was stationed at Dun Laoghaire garda station, was remembered as “a hero and a credit to his profession and to the community and the country he served".
He even took the time to write to every person who sent him messages of support following the vile abuse.
In one touching letter seen by Dublin Live, he wrote that "took great pride" in serving as a member of the force and had been blown away by the "generosity of spirit" shown by locals who took the time to write to him even though he had never met them before.
Following news of his tragic passing, The Irish Coast Guard - Dun Laoghaire branch posted a moving tribute on its Facebook page on Wednesday night, writing: "Our condolences to the family, friends and colleagues of Garda Alan Leblique, who we had the pleasure to meet and work alongside in our local community.
"May he rest in peace. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam delis.”
The International Police Association Ireland also paid tribute to the young garda in his 30s on the social media platform.
It said: "Earlier this week a terrible tragedy befell our Association and An Garda Síochána with the passing of Garda Alan Leblique.
"Alan was remembered by colleagues family and friends on Tuesday evening at a vigil outside Dun Laoghaire Garda Station.
"The service was led by Garda chaplains Fr Joe Kennedy and arch Deacon David Pierpoint.
"Alan served his community as he lived his life, with pride and compassion. To his husband Patrick, family, and friends, we pass our condolences.
"May he Rest in Peace. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam delis.”
An online book of condolences has been opened and can be signed here.
