Sixteen-year-old Derry boy Kían Dawson had ambitions to become a barber, it has been revealed.
Tributes are continuing to pour in for the popular Carnhill teen who died in a single-vehicle crash in Quigley’s Point on Saturday night.
A beloved son, brother and grandson, Kían will be laid to rest this Thursday following Requiem Mass in St Brigid’s Church, Carnhill (funeral details below).
In a heartfelt tribute from his school, St Columb’s College, Kían’s Principal Mrs Caroline McLaughlin said he was a respected Year 12 pupil with many friends who will be greatly missed.
“As a school community, we are truly saddened, and our thoughts and prayers are with Kian’s family,” Mrs McLaughlin said.
“Kian was a keen footballer as well as an engaging and popular pupil, whose personality meant he made friends easily; it should come as no surprise, therefore, to learn that he had a large circle of friends.
“Kian was about to embark on his chosen career of Barbering, for which he developed a talent this year.
“He was deeply respected by his peers and members of staff who worked with him. He will be very much missed by his classmates and teachers alike. May he rest in peace.”
Kían was a front-seat passenger in the car which crashed at Cross, Quigley’s Point at approximately 11.15pm on Saturday, 24th August, 2024. The driver of the car, a man in his 20s, was taken to the Royal Victoria Hospital where he remains in a critical condition.
A keen footballer, Kían played for Don Boscos Football Club before he recently transferred to Culmore Youth FC.
Don Boscos FC said that Kian and his father Emmett, who is a coach, gave them “wonderful and happy memories”.
“Kian was the most genuine, well mannered and unassuming young lad you could meet. He was a credit to Don Boscos but more importantly to his mum and dad, Fiona and Emmett.”
Culmore Youths said: “Kian had only recently joined our club from Don Boscos Football Club but in such a short time, he made an enormous impact on and off the pitch.
“His dedication in training and his performance during matches showed us what a talented and passionate player he was.
“We will miss his energy, his drive, and the positive spirit he brought to our team.”
Funeral Details for Kían Dawson-Kirk:
Beloved son of Emmett and Fiona, loving brother of Abaígael, cherished grandson of Margaret and the late Noel Kirk and Michael and Michelle Dawson and a much loved nephew and cousin.
Kían’s remains will be reposing in his home, 23 Carnhill, from 7 pm on Monday. Funeral from there on Thursday at 10.30 am for 11 o’clock Requiem Mass in St Brigid’s Church, Carnhill. Interment afterwards in St Mary’s Cemetery, Ardmore.
Family flowers only please. Donations in lieu of flowers, if wished, to Youthlife, 23 Bishop Street, Derry, BT48 6PR.
Sacred Heart of Jesus have mercy on his soul.
