Get all your news in one place.
100’s of premium titles.
One app.
Start reading
Belfast Live
Belfast Live
National
Shaun Keenan

Tributes paid to LGBTQ+ activist Paul Brennan after sudden death

Tributes have poured in for an LGBTQ+ activist in the North West hailed as a "kind, funny and generous guy".

Paul Brennan, from Co Donegal, sadly passed away suddenly on May 24th.

A “real genuine person”, who was "always happy to help and had the biggest heart", played a vital part in supporting the LGBTQ+ community in North West - including Foyle Pride in Derry.

Read more: Derry's Ciaran Caldwell remembered as an 'absolute gentleman' after brave cancer battle

Paul leaves behind his mother Bernie, sister Michelle, brother Barry, grandfather James, and extended family.

Dozens of "heartbroken" family and friends will say their final goodbyes to Paul on May 27th at a funeral mass in Letterkenny.

The Co Donegal man worked with the Rainbow Project at their Foyle office, working alongside children between 12-14 in the Rainbow Youth programme.

In tribute, the Rainbow Project wrote on social media: "It is with profound sadness and a heavy heart that we share with you the news that our friend and colleague, Paul Brennan, has passed away.

"Our thoughts are with all Paul's family and friends at this very difficult time."

Foyle Pride told MyDerry that they were "shocked and saddened" to hear the death of Mr Brennan.

They said: "We are saddened to hear of the death of Paul from the Rainbow Project. Paul will be such a great loss to the local community.

"Our thoughts are with his family, friends, and all those who knew and loved Paul."

Paul taking part in Foyle Pride (Brendan Harkin)

On social media, hundreds of people shared heartfelt memories of Mr Brennan, who has been hailed by many as a “beautiful person” with a “heart of gold”.

One person wrote: "So sorry to be reading this, Paul was a true gentleman, loved by anyone who came to know him, was always happy to help and had the biggest heart. Heaven truly has gained an angel. Condolences to his mum Bernie and close family and friends thinking about use all at this very sad time."

A second person added: "So sorry to hear this sad news. Such a lovely guy, full of craic and energy. Rest in peace Paul. Deepest sympathies to his family."

A third wrote: "I'm so so sorry to hear this. His sarcasm and sense of humour will be missed. Thinking on you all."

Read more: Derry theatre company's 'emotional' and 'unique' show with important disability message

Read more: Ballougry Primary School: Silent Witness actress joins fight to save Co Derry primary school

To get the latest breaking news from Co Derry straight to your inbox, sign up to our free newsletter.

Sign up to read this article
Read news from 100’s of titles, curated specifically for you.
Already a member? Sign in here
Related Stories
Top stories on inkl right now
Our Picks
Fourteen days free
Download the app
One app. One membership.
100+ trusted global sources.