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Irish Mirror
Irish Mirror
National
Anita McSorley

Heartbreaking tributes paid to Love/Hate star Stephen Clinch at funeral mass after shock death

A funeral mass has been held for Love/Hate and Darklands actor Stephen Clinch following his sudden death last week.

Family and friends gathered at the Church of Our Lady Immaculate in Darndale on Monday morning for his funeral mass, which was followed by cremation in Dardistown Crematorium.

A number of mourners wore Celtic football gear in a touching tribute to the sports fan.

READ MORE: Tributes paid to former Love/Hate star and convicted criminal Stephen Clinch who died suddenly

A snooker cue, which was famously used in a scene in Love/Hate by Stephen, was among the gifts offered at the funeral.

Stephen, 52, was best known for his role as Noely in the RTE hit series Love/Hate - a criminal involved in a feud with drug dealer Fran.

He also starred in the Virgin Media crime series Darklands, playing the character of Bernard in 2019.

A snooker cue, which was famously used in a scene in Love/Hate by Stephen Clinch, was displayed at his funeral (Collins)

The popular actor’s sudden death last Tuesday stunned the industry, with actor John Connors among those paying tribute to his “loyal” pal.

“One of the funniest and most decent people I’ve ever known. As loyal as a friend you could ever want. Love you Clinchy. Will miss you always. Rip.

John Connors at the funeral of Love/Hate actor Stephen Clinch (Collins)

“My thoughts and prayers are with his family,” Connors said.

Connors was among the famous faces who attended today's funeral mass.

Stephen is survived by his partner Karen, and his children Shauna, Stephen and Alan.

Dozens of tributes have been paid under his funeral notice, which reads: “Clinch (Darndale and late of Millbrook) - May 24, 2022, (unexpectedly).

“Stephen (Clinchy); sadly missed by his loving partner Karen, children Shauna, Stephen and Alan, grandchildren, sister Rosaleen and family, sister in law Lisa, brother in law PJ, nephews, nieces, extended family, neighbours and friends.”

A mourner carries a photograph (Collins)

One person wrote: “A great actor taken far to soon, you may be gone but you will live on in your movies for many many years to come.”

Another added: “Stephen you were one in a million a heart of gold so sadly missed always in my thoughts and prayers until we meet again safe in the arms of jesus.”

A third said: “Deepest condolences to Karen and all the family of Stephen. He was a legend and will be greatly missed but never forgotten. RIP Clinchy.”

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