RAPHOE teenager Christian McCullagh has been remembered as a “true fighter” following his sad passing last week.

Christian, the 17-year-old son of Raphoe ABC head coach Gary and Aileen McCullagh, passed away suddenly in Beaumont Hospital in Dublin last Wednesday.

He has been remembered by many for his bravery, having undergone numerous surgeries during his short life, including a kidney transplant and open heart surgery.

Requiem Mass took place on Sunday morning in St Eunan’s Church, Raphoe, where hundreds gathered to say their final goodbyes to the popular Deele College student.

After Mass, burial took place in the adjoining cemetery.

Remembering Christian as a “true fighter”, professional boxer Jason Quigley said he was one of the “bravest souls” he ever met.

“Christian’s time here with us was far too short, but his impact was lasting, and it was a true honour to have been given the chance to know him,” Jason said.

Deele College, where Christian was a cherished 5th year student, said: “From the minute he came through our doors, he made a profound impact on his classmates, teachers, SNA’s, school management and on anyone else who had the privilege of meeting him.”

A spokesperson from the secondary school said Christian was a “remarkable” young man who faced many challenges throughout his life.

“However, his strength of character and resilience in facing these challenges head on were a shining example to us all,” they continued.

“Christian’s cheeky, infectious smile and his constant good humour brightened up many difficult days in Deele College.

“He had a very positive and can do attitude and he was always eager to get involved in all school activities, especially if it involved getting out of class.”

As a school community, Deele College said they are utterly devastated by Christian’s sudden passing.

“As we mourn this tremendous loss, we also celebrate the sincere impact Christian had on our whole school community,” a spokesperson said.

“His memory will live on in the hearts of his classmates, teachers, SNAs and school management.

“We will treasure these happy moments forever.”

Raphoe Community Playgroup also paid tribute to their past pupil.

“He attended playgroup from the age of three and I don’t think “I can’t” was ever in his vocabulary no matter what was asked of him,” a spokesperson from the playgroup said.

“He was an inspiration to us all and to all those who ever knew Christian during his short life; your life was enriched by the experience.”

Christian will be lovingly and deeply missed by his parents Aileen and Gary, sister Rocha, brother Riley, grandparents Jacqueline and Christy McCullagh, Mary Frances and the late Seamus Campbell, sadly missed by his aunts, uncles, cousins and all his extended family and friends.