Ballybeg community stunned by tragic death of teenager Sammy Hanrahan

A dark cloud of devastation and sadness lingers over the community of Ballybeg and the surrounding areas as young and old try to come to terms with the tragic death of 18-year-old Sammy Hanrahan, who died on Friday, November 21.

The popular and much-loved teenager, who resided with his beloved and heartbroken mother, Jane Brown and sister Aria, lost his battle with life at Cork University Hospital, after suffering serious injuries when the bike that he was travelling on was involved in a collision with a car on the Cork Road on November 16.

Only a couple of weeks ago, Sammy delivered a fantastic speech at the Pathways to Nature conference held at the SETU Arena. He was one of 10 young people from Ferrybank and Ballybeg who attended local youth projects and took part in the programme with youths from Spain, Finland and Armenia.

The conference aimed at focusing attention on biodiversity projects, and Sammy was keen to offer his views on key issues. He did so with a smile and a degree of confidence that made him well-liked within the community.

Described as one of the politest young lads, Sammy loved where he came from in Ballybeg and took pride in the parish. He was keen to take part in the 50th anniversary celebrations, and his loss to his family and many friends is immeasurable.

With his funeral arrangements expected to be confirmed in the coming days, his mother, Jane, paid a heartbreaking tribute to her son on his death notice, saying: “Forever my baby boy, Love you always.” Paying tribute to Sammy, St. Saviours GAA Club said: “It is with great sadness that our club learned of the passing of young Sammy Hanrahan, who tragically passed away on Friday.

“Sammy was part of our U13 Eastern and County Football Championship–winning team in 2019 under manager Anthony Jacob. He also went on to win the U13 Hurling Championship in 2020 under managers Deaker Wyse and Dayne Flynn.

“Many of Sammy’s teammates and close friends, seen in the photos, continue to play with our club today at minor and U20 level. His presence and the friendships formed during those years will be fondly remembered by all who shared the pitch with him.

“Our sincere condolences to all of Sammy’s family, friends, and everyone in our club community who feels his loss. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam.” As his heartbroken family and many friends prepare to say their final goodbyes in the days to come, Sammy will be remembered for touching the lives of so many with his smile, his confidence, his gentlemanly nature, but most importantly, for his love of life, family, and friends.

To his family and friends, we offer our deepest and sincerest sympathies on their sad loss.

May he rest in peace.