‘Absolute gent and friend to all’ – Heartbreaking tributes pour in for Cork man who died after tragic accident

HEARTBREAKING tributes have been paid to a young business man who died after a tragic accident at home over the weekend.

Paul Collins of Waterfall, Co Cork passed away unexpectedly after an accident at his home on Saturday, May 30.

Paul, who lived in Glanmire, co-founded the Cork-based marketing and advertising agency Noise in 2016, where he worked as Marketing Director.

The Cork native collaborated with many recognisable brands across Ireland over the years.

Paul’s heartbroken family confirmed his death in a notice on Sunday.

The death notice confirmed that Paul passed away “unexpectedly, after a tragic accident” at his home in Glanmire.

It said: “Paul touched the lives of many people and will be sadly missed by his loving parents, brother, sister, uncles, aunt, cousins, relatives and his many friends, especially his best friend Robbie.”

Paul’s co-founder and closest friend Robbie Roche has led touching tributes to the young businessman, saying he “brought an energy and a kindness to his daily life that made everyone around him feel valued.”

He added: “I am struggling to find the words to capture what Paul meant to me and to this company.

“Many of you knew him as a brilliant and dedicated professional, but he was so much more than that.

“He was my best friend. He was a devoted son, a wonderful brother, and a person who was fiercely loved by all who knew him.

“He brought an energy and a kindness to his daily life that made everyone around him feel valued.”

Robbie continued: “Paul’s passion for his work was infectious. He loved nothing more than diving into a project and helping his clients succeed.

“He genuinely cared about the people he worked with and the businesses he helped build.

“He leaves behind a legacy of hard work, integrity, and deep compassion.”

A mass for Paul is taking place this morning at 11am in The Church of Our Lady of the Rosary, Shanakiel.

It will be followed by his funeral afterwards at St. James’ Cemetery, Chetwynd.

The tragic news has also sent shockwaves through the local community, with mourners describing him as a “sincere friend.”

One mourner said: “I have the fondest childhood memories of all the times I spent with Paul and with you all in Bishopstown and Glandore.

“Paul was such good fun, so enthusiastic and full of the joys of life and a sincere friend.

“May Paul Rest in Peace and may you all take some solace in the joy that Paul has brought to the world – it is a much brighter place because of him.”

Another said: “Deepest condolences to all the Collins family on the passing of Paul.

“An absolute gent, great friend to all. He will be terribly missed. Thinking of you all in this very difficult time.”

Someone else wrote: “I have the fondest memories of your children when they were so small.

“You were amazing parents then and I remember your home just filled with love. Thinking of you all at this saddest of times.”

While another added: “We were so shocked and saddened to hear the news. Paul was a gentleman, always willing to help out when needed.”