Irishman got to meet idol Luke Combs just days before untimely death as tributes paid

An Offaly man got to fulfill one last wish to meet his country music idol Luke Combs just days before his untimely passing after a brave battle with cancer.

James Dooley died a week to the day after meeting Luke Combs in Dublin before the US singer's sold-out 3Arena show. James passed away on Friday, October 20, after a brave battle with cancer.

His death sent shockwaves through the community in Offaly and beyond where he was beloved by many.

An RIP.ie notice said: "James will be sadly missed by his loving wife Sharon, his adored children; Níadh, Culann, Saoirse and Iarlaith, his parents Seamus and Margaret, sisters; Margaret, Sarah, Teresa and Mary, grandmother Betty, father-in-law Seamus, mother-in-law Marie, brothers and sisters-in-law, nephews; James, Jack, Hugh Óg and Aodhán, uncles, aunts, cousins, extended family, neighbours and friends."

James had amassed almost 8,000 Instagram followers on a page he dedicated to sharing his journey with cancer after his diagnosis last year.

He shared everything from hospital visits and treatments to family pictures, including a beautiful shot of him with his kids when he got home from hospital in May of this year. The picture was simply captioned: "Daddy's home."

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A post shared by James Dooley (@jms.dooley)

Last Friday, he shared three pictures on himself with Luke Combs, captioned, 'Shooting the s**t with Luke Combs." Followers were quick their comment their delight that James got the chance to meet one of his heroes.

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A post shared by James Dooley (@jms.dooley)

Drumcullen GAA, where James won honours with the intermediate team back in 2010, were one of the first to pay tribute to their club member.

"It is with heavy hearts and profound sadness today that we fly the flag at half mast following the passing of our past player and current member, James Dooley," they said.

The club added: "James's last outing in the Drumcullen colours were successful ones being part of the winning intermediate hurling team in 2010.

"James was a formidable corner back who hurled with skill, determination and, most notably, strength. Never willing to shy away, many opponent thought twice about going back to battle with him a second time round.

"While coming from a family steeped in GAA, James prided himself on being able to strike a harmonious balance between his loyalty to his club and his strong connections to Seir Kieran."

The Drumcullen statement went on to say James was "known by his teammates and friends to be quite the joker" and that he "was always game for a laugh, a chat and a prank and "his smile and humour were infectious to those around him."

The club went on to admire James's personal fortitude, not just on the field, but in his personal life too when he faced serious illness.

"James's physical strength was outdone by his mental strength and resilience when facing into a very serious diagnosis. Again, he embarked on the game of his life, displaying the same determination, strength, positivity and humour which he had in his playing days.

"Our deepest sympathies go to his wife Sharon, children Niadh, Culann, Saoirse and Iarlaith. Also to his parents Seamus and Margarent, his sisters and all his extended family and friends in Drumcellen, Seir Kieran and beyond."

Other friends and locals were quick to share heartfelt tributes to a man very much beloved in his community. 

One tribute read: "I am so sorry to hear that James has left us. He will always be remembered for his strength, bravery & fabulous nature that even came across online. My heart breaks for his family but his legacy lives on through you all. Treasure all the wonderful memories ye have together. RIP James."

Another person said: "James fought a hard brave battle but touched so many lives all over this country and beyond. You have so many memories and made great memories, even last Friday when he got to meet his idol Luke Combs. James will look after you all and help you to get through tough days. You will be missed James, rest easy."

Funeral Details

Reposing at his home (R42VX20) on Saturday from 4p.m -7p.m. Removal from his home on Sunday morning to arrive at Seir Kieran’s Church, Clareen, at 11.45a.m. for Funeral Mass at 12 noon, followed by burial in Clareen Cemetery. House Private Sunday morning, please. Family flowers only. Donations can be made to St. Vincent’s ward, The Mater Foundation.