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07 Sept 2025

Longford and Roscommon shocked by death of 'gentleman, fantastic kayaking instructor and friend' Junior Hannon

Civil Defence: 'It is with deep sadness that we received the news this morning, of the death of third officer, volunteer Junior Hannon'

Longford and Roscommon shocked by death of 'gentleman, fantastic kayaking instructor and friend' Junior Hannon

Civil Defence: 'It is with deep sadness that we received the news this morning, of the death of third officer, volunteer Junior Hannon'

There is much sadness and shock in Longford and Roscommon following the death of Patrick 'Junior' Hannon who has been remembered as 'a gentleman, a fantastic kayaking instructor and friend'.

Junior of  5 Meadowbrook, Ballyleague, Co Roscommon and formerly Roscommon Town passed to his eternal reward suddenly on Friday, June 28. 

He will be sadly missed by his mother Christina, wife, sons, daughters, brothers, sisters, nieces, nephews, extended family, neighbours and friends. He is predeceased by his father PJ. May Junior rest in peace.

Longford rugby club posted a lovely tribute to their club stalwart, Junior. 

"We’re all very sad to hear of the passing of Longford RFC stalwart, Junior (Patrick) Hannon.

"Junior, along with his wife Elaine, he took the well worn route of supporting Kevin from the sidelines as he lined out for the Under 12s. Junior took the plunge up to coaching the Under 13s the following season, bringing his humour, patience and skills to the team as they triumphed up and down Leinster.
"Junior continued coaching youths before becoming involved in the management teams of the seniors. Always with a smile on his face and a story to tell, Junior will truly be missed around the club.
"A proud Roscommon man, he inspired many others, young and old, teaching kayaking in Ballyleague and was a keen photographer. His pride of Lough Ree can be seen in the many photographs shown by Virgin Media weather presenter Deric Ó h'Artagáin. In addition Junior was an officer with Roscommon Civil Defence and in that capacity regularly served in search and rescue ops on the Shannon waterways.
"Our deepest sympathies go to his wife Elaine, son Kevin and daughter Shauna, all his family, friends, colleagues and club mates. His spirit will live on in the players he coached and the people he met along the way.
"Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam."

Roscommon Civil Defence posted a tribute on Facebook to their dedicated volunteer. "It is with deep sadness that we received the news this morning, of the death of third officer, volunteer Junior Hannon.

"A true gentleman, the most dedicated and reliable volunteer, we were so lucky to have had him in Roscommon. He will be greatly missed by all."
Another who knew Junior very well was Miriam Burke. "It is with profound sorrow and disbelief that I inform you of the untimely passing of our friend and kayaking instructor, Junior Hannon. Junior played a pivotal role in introducing me to the joys of kayaking, and I am eternally grateful for his guidance and mentorship.
"I offer my sincere condolences to all his family and many many friends. May Junior's soul find eternal peace."
The Loughree Orcas said Junior was a particularly great friend to anybody and everybody who was involved in activities upon the river Shannon here and beyond for years.
"As an expert kayaker and instructor, he provided safety cover with his wife Elaine and many of his students to countless Triathlons and Swim Events all around the Region over the years.
"As a prominent member of the Roscommon Civil Defence, Junior performed many duties, tirelessly and without any consideration for his own inconvenience once he was called upon to provide his skills on behalf of the community.
"He will be very sadly missed by everyone in the Shannon Region and certainly by the Loughree Orcas to whom he was a special friend . Ar dheis dè go raibh a anam."

The late Junior Hannon will repose at his home in Ballyleague (N39 AX70) on Sunday afternoon, June 30 from 4pm until 7pm. Removal takes pkace on Monday morning, July 1 to the Church of the Holy Rosary, Ballyleague arriving for Mass of the Resurrection at 12 noon. Burial afterwards in St Coman’s Cemetery, Roscommon.

The Hannon family would sincerely like to thank their relatives and friends for their kindness at this time. Please note that the funeral Mass will be broadcast and can be viewed live on Monday at 12 noon by CLICKING HERE.

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