A community in Co Mayo is in mourning after the death of a popular man following his battle with a rare form of cancer.
Kieran Cawley passed away on Tuesday several months after being diagnosed with cholangiocarcinoma, also known as bile duct cancer.
His family had launched a GoFundMe campaign to help him access treatment abroad as the options in Ireland were limited.
The fundraiser for the dad-of-one received almost €263,000 in donations.
People across the local and sporting community in Kieran's native Crossmolina have been paying tribute to the popular prison officer and up and coming referee.
Ballina RFC said in a post online: "Ballina RFC, the entire county of Mayo and beyond is in mourning today after news reached us of the passing of Kieran Cawley.
"Kieran, from Ballyscanlon in Crossmolina lost his proud and powerful fight for life and his passing has shrouded us all in darkness.
"Kieran was a good man, a family man, a sportsman and a gentleman. He made a lasting impression on all lucky enough to have spent time in his company and memories of his smile and passion will never fade away.
"He played rugby in Heffernan Park in his earlier years and became a part of the BRFC family. Not only was he talented on the pitch, he was a great clubman and friend off it.
"He was back on the pitch last year, refereeing a girls game and the players still talk about his guidance and care on that occasion.
"Kieran Cawley was a lovely man and his likes will not pass this way again.
"Our President Deirdre Whyte, our Chairman Alan Rowe, the executive committee and the entire membership of Ballina RFC wish to express our deepest condolences to Kieran's wife Marcella, son Caolán, family, friends and all who loved a special man."
Kiltimagh GAA Club said: "We are saddened to hear of the untimely passing of Kieran Cawley RIP, our thoughts are with his wife Marcella, son Caolán and the Cawley and Murtagh families. Kieran was a frequent visitor to Gilmartin Park. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam dílis."
Tributes were also paid by North Mayo GAA who said: "The North Board would like to send our condolences to Kierans wife Marcella son Caolán brothers Patrick and Charlie, mother-in-law Anne, brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, cousins, relatives, friends and the wider Crossmolina community on the sad and untimely passing of Kieran
"A real gentleman and popular figure on and off the field he was making a good name for himself on the fields of North Mayo as an up and coming referee, kieran will be sorely missed by everyone who knew him."
"Kieran was a man whose good nature and personality saw him as a friend to many players and officials.
"He was widely respected throughout North Mayo and beyond. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam."
Kieran will be laid to rest on Friday.
A notice on RIP.ie reads: "Son of the late Cathal & Bridie & son-in-law of Johnny Murtagh. Sadly missed by his loving wife Marcella, son Caolán, brothers Patrick & Charlie, mother-in-law Anne, brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, cousins, relatives & friends.
"Remains to repose at Hiney's Funeral Home, Crossmolina, this Thursday evening from 5pm until 7pm. Requiem Mass on Friday at 1pm in the Church of Our Lady, Kilmurry. Burial afterwards in adjoining cemetery."
