Tributes pour in for 'true gentleman' Russell Forde whose death has left a community in shock

Russell Forde (39) from Yeats Drive, Cranmore, was found with head injuries at Rockwood Parade shortly after 5pm on Tuesday.

It is believed he had suffered a blow to the head in a daytime attack.

Emergency services treated Mr Forde at the scene of the incident before rushing him to Sligo University Hospital. A short time later, he was transferred to Beaumont Hospital in Dublin for treatment, where he later died.

His death notice on RIP.ie states that Russell, of Yeats Drive, Cranmore, Sligo Town, (died) suddenly, at Beaumont Hospital, Dublin.

“Russell (is) predeceased by his father Eugene,” it reads. “Beloved son of Eileen and dear brother of Warren, Wayne, Giles and Owen.

“He will be sadly missed by his mother, brothers, sisters-in-law Lisa, Orlaith, Stacey and Amy, aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and his wide circle of family and friends both home and abroad.”

Numerous messages of sympathy have been left in the condolences section, with one person writing: “To Warren and family, very sorry to hear of the passing of your brother Russell, may he rest in peace.”

Another added: “Sending my heartfelt condolences to Eileen, Warren, Wayne, Giles, Owen & all their families on the untimely passing of poor Russell. I’m thinking of ye all at this very sad & difficult time. May poor Russell rest in peace.”

Another person said: “Our condolences to Eileen and the Forde family on their loss of Russell may you find strength in these dark days ahead. May Russell rest in eternal peace."

One said their “dear friend would be “greatly missed”.

“Our circle is still in shock,” they added. “We are losing all our friends 1 by 1. we love nd miss ya Russell.

“I hope ur smiling down on us nd will give us strength 2 help us get through. My god buddy i wish we didn't have 2 say goodbye 2 u so soon, rest in ur heavenly bed now buddy nd we will continue 2 have a drink 4 u.”

One tribute said Russell was a “true gentleman who always had time for a hello & chat”.

“Will be greatly missed walking down the street every day,” they said. “He will be fondly remembered for the beautiful young man he was, taken too soon. Thinking of you all at this very difficult time. Beautiful memories will be treasured forever. You'll forever be remembered Russell.”

Gino O'Boyle, a People Before Profit Councillor in the Sligo-Strandhill area, who knew Russell, said he was "well liked" around the town and was a big Liverpool FC supporter.

I’ve known Russell most of my life," Cllr O'Boyle said. "There was not much of an age difference between is. He was a very intelligent man, very caring, and very down to earth.

"He was an avid Liverpool fan and had been over there before to see a game.

"I think his death will come as a shock to many people.

"He will be sadly missed my his family. He comes from a very good family and he will be missed around the town and the wider community."

Investigating gardaí are appealing for witnesses to come forward.

"Any persons who were in the vicinity on Tuesday evening from 5pm to 6.15pm and also any persons who may have camera footage or dash cam footage from the location at the time of the incident to make it available to them," they said.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Sligo Garda Station (071) 915 7000, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111 or any Garda station.