Tributes have been paid to a ‘true gentleman’ and dad-of-three who died following a horror crash in Co Meath.

Clarence Farrell, from Crossakiel, Kells, passed away after his car struck a premises on Connaught Street in Athboy at around 2am on Sunday morning.

The popular mechanic was predeceased by his father Vincent and is survived by his wife Catherine, children Jack, Emily and Rocco, mother Kathleen, sisters Felicity and Karen, brother Terry, nephews Caleb and Ryan, extended family and a wide circle of friends.

Following his death, friends and members of the local community took to social media to pay tribute to Clarence and remember him as a kind and generous person.

One person wrote: ‘So very sorry to hear of the tragic passing of Clarence, an absolute gentleman.’

Another said: ‘Deepest condolences to Clarence’s family on his untimely passing.

‘We will always fondly remember him as a true gentleman and for his kindness and warmth over the years.’

Others remembered Clarence through his work as a mechanic, with one person describing the impact he had on their family over the years.

They wrote: ‘Saddened to hear about the passing of Clarence.

‘Over the years, Clarence became more than a mechanic to myself and my family who we all fondly talked about and to.

‘He became somebody reliable, honest, trustworthy and who would love to have the chats and hear all the news and stories.

‘He never rushed any of us and he was so proud of his three children and loving wife.’

Clarence will repose at Mullen’s Funeral Home in Athboy on Wednesday from 4pm until 7pm.

His Funeral Mass will take place at St James’ Church in Athboy on Thursday at 10.30am, followed by a cremation service at Lakelands Crematorium in Cavan at 1pm.

The family have requested that their home remain private, with family flowers only. Donations, if desired, can be made to a charity of their choice.

The Farrell family also expressed their heartfelt gratitude to the National Ambulance Service paramedics and members of An Garda Síochána who attended the scene on Sunday morning.