Tributes pour in following untimely death of 'pure gentleman' Declan Barr

There has been a huge outpouring of sadness in Donegal Town and Ballintra following the untimely death of Declan Barr.

Late of Ballintra and originally from Donegal Town, Declan passed away peacefully at Donegal Community Hospital on Sunday after an illness borne with courage and dignity. 

A popular and much-loved man, he will be deeply missed, particularly by his wife Laura, daughters Ellie, Katie and Mollie, his parents Pasty and May, brother Martin (Dave), sisters Lisa (John), Carol (Raymond), mother- and father-in-law, Ivan and Anne, and all extended family and friends.

His remains are reposing at the family home (F94 C7R2) on Monday from 2pm until 9pm with the house private at all other times.

Funeral Mass will take place on Tuesday at 11am in St Brigid’s Church, Ballintra, followed by burial in the adjoining cemetery. 

Anyone who wishes to make a donation in Declan’s memory can do so to Donegal Town Community Hospital or Solas Cancer Support Centre, Donegal Town,.

Tributes paid locally show the high esteem in which Declan was held, and the many lives he touched in the wider community.

A spokesperson for Donegal Town Football Club took to social media to say: “Everyone at Donegal Town FC are deeply saddened at the passing of Declan “Decy” Barr this morning. 

“Today, we mourn the loss of an amazing individual who embodied the true spirit of our football club.

“Declan's journey with us began at the tender age of three when he proudly served as our club mascot. From there, he grew into an exceptional player, leading by example on the field as he progressed through our underage ranks and eventually into our senior team where he represented and captained us for many years. 

“But Declan's contributions extended far beyond the pitch. He selflessly dedicated himself to the betterment of our club, holding various crucial roles such as senior team management, club PRO, treasurer, and secretary. He wore each hat with passion and commitment, always putting the best interests of the club at the forefront.

“Declan's proudest moments came when his three daughters followed in his footsteps, becoming cherished members of our club. He beamed with pride as he watched them don the Town jerseys with the recent formation of our underage girls setup. 

“Just two weeks ago, Declan was present on the Hospital Field, cheering on his daughter Katie as she took to the pitch for our girls' team.

“Declan's infectious banter and that unmistakable big smile brought joy and laughter to all who knew him. His presence brightened our club and our lives, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of everyone he encountered.

“In this time of immeasurable loss, we extend our deepest sympathy to Declan's loving wife Laura, his adored daughters Ellie, Katie, and Molly, his devoted parents Patsy and May, his brother Martin, his sisters Carol and Lisa and his extended family members and friends. May you find comfort and strength in the memories you shared and the love that surrounded Declan throughout his incredible journey.

“As a club, we will forever cherish the moments we spent with Declan and honour his memory by continuing to embody the values he held dear.

“Rest in peace, dear Declan. You will be deeply missed, but never forgotten.”

Neighbouring soccer club Letterbarrow Celtic has also paid tribute to Declan.

A spokesperson said: “All of us here at Letterbarrow Celtic are deeply saddened on hearing of the passing of Declan Barr, a pure gentleman, a sportsman through and through and a brilliant footballer, a proud Donegal Town FC stalwart and a true friend of Letterbarrow Celtic.

“The passing of Declan is a huge loss to Donegal Town FC and the wider Donegal soccer fraternity, and he will be sorely missed.”

The club expressed condolences to Declan’s family and friends.

CLG Naomh Bríd held a minute’s silence in Declan’s memory ahead of their match against Aodh Ruadh on Sunday. 

A club spokesperson said: “CLG Naomh Bríd and all our community are extremely saddened at the sad passing of Declan Barr.

“Our sincere condolences to Laura, Ellie, Katie and Mollie, the Barr and Farrell families, and extended family.

“May Declan’s gentle soul rest in peace.”