Rhys was ‘the most caring guy you could meet’
Tributes to young rugby-playing dad:
TRIBUTES have been paid to a Valleys rugby player and young dad who died suddenly.
Rhys O’Callaghan, who was just 20, died on Sunday, February 12, leaving his family and rugby colleagues in deep shock.
His team, Hirwaun Rugby Club, paid a special tribute to Rhys, holding a minute’s silence before their game against Tongwynlais RFC on Saturday while on Sunday there was a balloon release in Rhys’ memory at the Hirwaun Welfare Ground.
Rhys leaves two young daughters, his partner Tanya and Tanya’s daughter
He also had two brothers and three sisters.
Paying tribute, his aunt and godmother Lisa Jones called Rhys a “character” whose precious car will play a part at his funeral.
She said: “He was very funny, too.
“Rhys was 100 miles an hour and couldn’t stay still for five minutes.
“He loved his car – a black Citroen sport that is going to take part in the funeral procession.”
Rhys has been described as a family boy who adored his nan.
He has a large family consisting of both the O’Callaghans and the Edwards.
“His brothers and sisters are absolutely devastated,” she added.
“His mum says she keeps expecting him to walk through the door.
“Rhys was so handsome. He could have been a model easily and loved wearing white shirts with his two diamond earrings.”
Since the sad news broke, the community has rallied round the family.
He had played at Hirwaun Rugby Club from the age of seven and was well-known in the village and rugby circles.
Lisa said: “Everyone knew him in the community.
“The support has been overwhelming. People have been coming to the house and bringing us food. We could never have imagined it.
“The tributes on Facebook are a testament to the person he was.”
His rugby club said via Twitter: “Everyone at Hirwuan RFC would like to extend their condolences to Rhys O’Callaghan’s family and friends on the tragic loss.”
A fundraising page has been set up to raise funds for his daughters.
It had exceeded its £200 target within a day.
People have been full of praise for Rhys on the page.
Stephen Burke commented: “The most caring and thoughtful guy you could ever wish to meet.”
Laura Davies echoed this. She said: “I used to babysit Rhys when he was little and he was a lovable child but then he grew into a lovable man who still had that cheeky smile.
“No doubt his love will shine through his girls.”
To donate to the family visit www.justgiving.com/ crowdfunding/RHYSOCAL