Funeral Planned for Padraig O’Reilly Following Quad Bike Tragedy

Funeral arrangements have been confirmed for Padraig O’Reilly, a father of two who tragically lost his life in a quad bike accident in Killeshandra, Co Cavan on August 24, 2023. The incident, which occurred on a Sunday morning, has prompted an outpouring of tributes from friends and family who remember him as a person with “the purest of hearts.”

Mr. O’Reilly, known affectionately as Paudie, was in his 40s and leaves behind his beloved wife, Schira, and their children, Grace and Finn. He will lie in repose at Lakelands Funeral Home on Dublin Road in Cavan on August 29, from 16:00 to 20:00. His funeral notice, as posted on RIP.ie, highlights that he will be “sadly missed by his loving wife, daughter, son, father Meehaul, mother Patricia, sisters and brother, Mairéad, Fearghal, Aishling, Sinead, and Aoishe, along with extended family and a wide circle of friends.”

The removal for the funeral will take place on the morning of August 30 at 11:30 to St Brigid’s Church in Killeshandra, where a Requiem Mass will be held at 12:00. Following the service, cremation will occur at Lakelands Crematorium.

As friends and community members reflect on his life, many have shared heartfelt messages about Mr. O’Reilly. One mourner described him as “a great character, always in good humour,” while another noted, “A huge loss to his entire family and the community as a whole. One of the good guys gone way too soon. May you rest in peace, Paudie.” Another tribute emphasized his kindness, stating, “He truly had the purest of hearts and no matter where he went, he carried kindness, warmth, and laughter with him.”

The circumstances surrounding the accident are currently under investigation, with An Garda Siochana confirming that emergency services responded to the scene. A spokesperson stated, “Gardaí and emergency services responded to a fatal incident at a premises in Killeshandra. A man, aged in his 40s, was pronounced deceased at the scene.” Following the incident, Mr. O’Reilly’s body has been transferred to Cavan General Hospital, where a post-mortem examination will take place.

The Health and Safety Authority (HSA) has been notified and is involved in the investigation. A file will be prepared for the Coroner’s Court as part of the ongoing inquiry into the tragic event.

As the community comes together to mourn the loss of a cherished member, it is clear that Mr. O’Reilly’s impact on those around him will be lasting. His legacy of kindness and warmth serves as a poignant reminder of the value he brought to the lives of many.