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11 Oct 2025

'A beautiful girl gone too soon' - Tributes after death of teenage Irish boxing star

Tributes from across the country and the world have been flooding in for talented boxer Sophie Healy since last weekend

'A beautiful girl gone too soon' - Tributes after death of teenage Irish boxing star

'A beautiful girl gone too soon' - Tributes after death of teenage Irish boxing star

Tributes have been paid in Cork and beyond after the tragic death of young Rebel boxing star Sophie Healy.

The Cork youngster passed away "unexpectedly but peacefully" last Sunday, according to her RIP.ie notice.

Sophie was attached to Fr Horgan's and Gold Gloves Boxing Clubs and her presence in those circles was felt across the country.

Sophie was a "treasured and adored daughter" of Alan and Melissa (O’Donoghue) and loving sister and best friend of Nathan and Lauren and loving granddaughter of the late Mag.

Her RIP.ie notice says she will be "sadly missed by her heartbroken family, grandparents Ber, John and Dave, aunts Fidelma, Rachel, Grace, uncles Adrian, Brian, David and Anthony, cousins Jonathon, Dean, Kayleigh, Scott, Rebecca, Abbie, Emily, Alex, Kyle, Luke, Darren, Callum, Dylan, Faye, Mia, Jack, Harry, Ali, Jamie, Ellie, Joey, Mia, J.J., Rosie, Zach and Ruby, grandaunts, granduncles, relatives, neighbours and a large circle of friends, especially Mark, Catherine, Saoirse, Skye and Mia."

Tributes from across the country and the world have been flooding in for the talented boxer since last weekend.

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One woman wrote: "My deepest heartfelt sympathies to you all at the loss of your beautiful Sophie. Her bright smile will live on in my memory forever. She was a truly wonderful girl whom I was so lucky to teach. May she rest in eternal peace."

Following Sophie's funeral on Wednesday, another tribute read: "Alan, Melissa, Nathan and Lauren, there are no words to express the unimaginable loss of your beautiful daughter and sister Sophie.

"Over the last few days you could see how your Sophie’s light, kindness and talent touched so many lives. May you find some solace in the love and memories you all shared together.

"Nathan and Lauren, you both did your beloved little sister so proud. The beautiful words Nathan said in the church and Lauren playing Sophie’s favourite music.

"My heart aches for you and for Sophie’s extended family and friends on this tragic loss. I hope you find some strength in the love and support that is surrounding you all. May Sophie Rest in Eternal Peace."

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