Tributes have poured in after a 'well-loved' young boy died unexpectedly over the weekend.
Eric Ene tragically passed away on Sunday at St Luke's Hospital in Kilkenny.
He is survived by his 'heart-broken' parents Adrian and Doina.
The Graigecullen community has been left in mourning after the sad death.
His local Educate Together school wrote: "Our school community was devastated to hear of the death of Eric Ene, a pupil in Gillian's Junior Infant Class. Our thoughts and deepest condolences are with Eric's parents and grandparents and extended family at this very difficult time.
"Eric was a much-loved student in Junior Infants, both by his teacher, classmates and wider school community. We have been inundated by thoughtful messages of condolence and news of his death has had a huge impact on all of us."
O'Hanrahan's GAA club wrote: "Eric was a member of our young Blues nursery squad and part of the under 7 team. He was a joy to coach and was hugely popular with his team mates. His sense of fun and friendship shone through at every session."
While friends and family members took to RIP.ie to pay touching tributes to the young boy.
One wrote: "Eric will be remembered as a joyful boy full of energy and joy in life."
Another added: "I saw him most mornings arriving on the bus to school and he was always happy and smiling. His was often talked about by my daughter.. he will be sorely missed."
A fundraiser to help with funeral costs has already raised nearly €5,000.
You can donate to the GoFundMe here.
