'Too young to go' - Huge sadness at untimely death of Tipperary soccer player
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A Tipperary father of four children who were ‘the centre of his world’ has tragically passed away
There is great grief and sadness in Tipperary following the passing of a young father of four.
Rhyen Hicks was from Kickham Place in Mullinahone, Co. Tipperary and passed away peacefully on June 7, 2026, in the loving care of the staff of St. Luke's Hospital, Kilkenny.
He was surrounded by his heartbroken family, including his beloved partner Sally and children Kadey, Farrah, Hugo and Hunter.
His children were the centre of his world.
He was the cherished son of Philip and Debi, and stepson of Paul. He will be forever loved and sadly missed by his brothers Richard, Rhys and Rheo, sisters Nicola and Abbey, grandmother Val, uncles, aunts, sister-in-law Stacey, godchild Harper Jane, nephews, nieces, extended family, neighbours and many friends, his RIP.ie death notice says.
He is predeceased by his beloved uncle Rob.
Rhyen will be especially missed by his close friends Rachel, Remi, Michael, Andre, Tyler, Liam, Rory, Kaya, Mollie, Jordan, Corey and Jonathan, whose friendship meant so much to him throughout his life.
Messages of condolence have poured in on RIP.ie, with one mourner writing: “Rest in peace Rhyen too young to go,” and “So sad to hear that you have passed. You was a lovely young man who would help anybody out and will be sadly be missed. Rest In Peace my friend”.
Rhyen’s soccer club, Mullinahone FC, paid a heartfelt tribute. In a statement, the club said: “It is with profound sadness that we remember and honour one of our own, Rhyen Hicks.
“Rhyen was more than just a talented striker and valued club member; he was a friend, a teammate, a loving partner to Sally, and a devoted father to his four beautiful children. His loss has left a void that words can never truly fill.
“As a member of the very first Mullinahone FC team to win a league title, Rhyen helped create memories and achievements that will forever be part of our club’s history. He wore the red and green jersey with pride, passion, and commitment, and his contribution to Mullinahone FC will never be forgotten.
“Today, our thoughts and deepest sympathies are with Sally, his four children, his Dad Phil, his Aunt Jane and his cousins Dre & Liam who he shared the pitch with for many years, all his family members and everyone who loved him. We hope they find strength in knowing how much Rhyen meant to so many people and how fondly he will always be remembered within our club and community.
“Rhyen’s passing is a heartbreaking reminder that struggles are often carried silently. As a club and community, we encourage anyone who may be struggling to reach out, speak to someone they trust, or seek support. No one should ever feel they have to face their battles alone.
“Rest easy, Rhyen.
“Your place in Mullinahone FC history is secure, your memories will live on forever, and your name will never be forgotten.”
Reposing at Brett's Funeral Home, Mullinahone, on Wednesday, June 10, from 5.00pm to 7.00pm. Requiem Mass on Thursday, June 11th, at 11.30am in St. Michael's Church, Mullinahone, followed by burial afterwards in St. Michael's Cemetery, Killaghy, Mullinahone.
The Hicks family would like to sincerely thank everyone who has shown such kindness, support and compassion during this difficult time.
The family say that the visits, messages, prayers and acts of friendship have brought great comfort and are deeply appreciated.
Rhyen's warmth, kindness and friendship will be fondly remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him.