Oran Marron: Tributes paid as GAA club expresses “utter devastation” after ex-player, 21, dies in Australia

Oran Marron passed away after a brief illness in Perth as Crossmaglen Rangers pay a moving tribute to their former player

A Co Armagh GAA club have paid tribute to a former player who died in Australia.

Oran Marron, 21, passed away on Sunday following a brief illness. It is understood he moved to Perth, Australia earlier this year.

Crossmaglen Rangers had asked for club members and the wider GAA community to keep Oran in their prayers last week.

Oran was a former playing member of the famous south Armagh club and, in a moving post on social media, Crossmaglen have spoken of their “utter devastation” at his untimely passing.

A Crossmaglen Rangers social media statement said: “There are just no words to express the utter devastation and shock at the untimely passing of Oran Marron.

“Oran togged out in the black and amber from an early age, collecting many medals along the way which he was very proud of. A great team mate and friend, his jolly nature and beautiful smile will be forever remembered.

“Above all he was as a brilliant Son to Jacqueline, two peas in a pod. A much loved Grandson to PJ and Stacia, nephew to Martin and Amanda. To the Marron and Martin families you are all in our thoughts and prayers.

“To Oran’s friends, you have lost another shining light so soon after Caolan, may all the happy times shared and memories created bring you comfort. Oran, look after your Mammy and give her strength. Rest in peace Oran. #foreveryoung.”

News of Oran’s tragic passing comes a little over one year on from the death of another young footballer from Crossmaglen after Caolan Finnegan lost his battle with brain cancer last August.

Oran’s mother, Jacqueline, posted a heartbreaking message on social media, which read: “For all of his 21 years, he was deeply loved — the light of my life, full of laughter, kindness, and mischief. Life will never be the same without him.

“Now it’s time to take our final journey home, from Perth to Crossmaglen, carrying him with me every step of the way.

“I’ll love you forever Oran. Being your Mammy was the greatest gift of my life. Always my angel.”

Marron was a past pupil of St Patrick’s in Crossmaglen and they shared their own tribute.

“We are all deeply saddened to learn of the recent passing of our past pupil Oran Marron, may his gentle soul Rest in Peace. Oran spent eight years with us. From his earliest days, when you walked into his classroom Oran’s beautiful smile shone through the room,” the school said.

“He approached all things with a good nature and good will, both in the classroom and on the sports field. A good friend to his classmates and an engaging student.

“All of us who had the pleasure and honour of knowing him are the better for our time with Oran. Our thoughts and prayers are with his mother Jacqueline, family and friends at this time and in the days ahead.”