The Garda community is in mourning this week after one of their colleagues died in tragic circumstances.
Garda Hughie Byrne, from Glenview Heights and formerly of Derrygreenagh Park, Rochfortbridge, Westmeath, died at his home on Saturday, the force has confirmed.
His heartbroken family paid tribute to Hugh saying he was “much loved and adored” by everyone who knew him, Dublin Live reports.
Garda Chaplain David Pierpoint confirmed the news holding a prayer service for the deceased officer in the early hours of Tuesday morning.
Mr Pierpoint said that this was a difficult time for the whole Garda force and urged any officer who needs to talk to “please let someone know how you feel”.
He said: “Fr Joe and I held a prayer service in Trim station for Garda Hugh Byrne who died in tragic circumstances.
“If any member needs to talk please let someone know how you feel.
“As chaplains, we are always available as is Employee Services or Garda 24/7 counselling service. R.I.P Hugh.”
Hughie, as he was known to family and friends, will be laid to rest on Wednesday at 11am in the Church of the Immaculate Conception, Rochfortbridge, with burial afterwards in Milltownpass Cemetery.
His death notice reads: “Hughie Byrne, Glenview Heights, Mullingar and formerly Derrygreenagh Park, Rochfortbridge, (An Garda Síochána) passed away unexpectedly but peacefully at his home.
“Pre-deceased by his father Eddie. Hughie, much loved and adored by his heartbroken family, mother Marie, sisters Martina (Nugent) and Caroline (McCloskey), brothers Edward, Liam and Denis, brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, nephews, nieces, aunts, uncles, cousins, extended family, Sinead, An Garda Síochána colleagues, wonderful neighbours and a wide circle of friends.
“May Hughie’s Gentle Soul Rest In Peace. Due to continued Government restrictions, Hughie’s Funeral Mass will be private to family on Wednesday (10th March) at 11am in the Church of the Immaculate Conception, Rochfortbridge, with burial afterwards in Milltownpass Cemetery.”
