Colleagues pay tribute to Longford father and garda who ‘touched the hearts of many’

Colleagues have been paying tribute to the late Damien Sharkey, who passed away suddenly.

Damien Sharkey, of Youghalarra Way, Newtown, Nenagh and of Garda College Templemore passed away suddenly at home on July 20, surrounded by his loving family.

Formerly of Templemichael Terrace, Longford, Damien was the dearly loved husband of Joan and the loving father of Abbey, Polly and Mia.

His colleagues at Garda College Templemore have paid tribute to Damien, who has been described as a kind man who "touched the hearts of many". 

Also read: Jobs blow for Longford as Masterlink to let 130 staff go

"It was with extreme sadness on Saturday 20th July 2024 that everyone here at the Garda College Templemore and the Garda community nationwide learned of the sudden and unexpected death of our colleague, friend and mentor Garda Damien Sharkey 26644B," Garda College Templemore said on social media. 

"Damien joined An Garda Sìochàna as part of class 4/96 and he was attested as a member of An Garda Sìochàna on 2/4/1997. Damien then transferred into the Garda College on the 1/5/2001 where he has spent 23 years as a friend and mentor to colleagues and students alike. During the covid pandemic Damien was stationed on front line policing duties in Templemore Garda station on unit c. Damien was of great assistance to the community he served and made lifelong friends in the community and the station party.

"Damien touched the hearts of everyone who encountered him. With his kindness, generosity and unwavering support, Damien has played a vital role in training and guiding generations of Gardai.

Also read: Longford Battery Road works to continue “until close to the end of the year”

"While everyone here at the Garda College comes to terms with our sad loss, Damien's wife Joan , his daughters Abbey,  Polly and Mia, his father Johnny, his brothers,  sisters, and extended family are foremost in our thoughts and prayers. Damien spoke so lovingly of Joan and his three girls at every given opportunity,  his immense pride and love for them all, so obvious for everyone to see. We hope that this gives them some comfort in these difficult times. Garda Damien Sharkey 26644B thank you for your service, may your gentle soul rest in peace, Ní bheidh a leithéid arís ann," they said.

PICTURES | Stunning style and sharp suits as Longford students dress to impress for graduation ball