The global Strongman community has come together in extraordinary fashion following the heartbreaking death of Irish Strongman Pa O’Dwyer — affectionately known as the “Limerick Lion” — who tragically passed away at just 40 years old.
In the days since his passing, an outpouring of love and support has been directed toward Pa’s family, with a GoFundMe campaign organised by former World’s Strongest Man Eddie Hall raising over £114,000 from more than 5,000 donations (as of this writing).
The campaign was launched to assist with memorial arrangements and help support his partner Layna and their three children — Sienna, Rocco, and Freddy — during this devastating time.
GoFundMe for Pa’s family: https://gofund.me/94d1c5b4f
In the fundraiser description, strongman Eddie Hall wrote: “Hi, I’m Eddie Hall and I’m fundraising for Pa O’Dwyer because he deserves to be paid back for all he has given us in this world.
“He’s made us all laugh. He’s made all think. He’s made us all better people in some way through his bigger than life character. This money is to help pay for his memorial service and to support his beautiful family during this difficult time.
“Pa leaves behind 3 children and a whole family that loved and adored him and leaves a massive hole emotionally and practically… so let’s help out with the practical part as that’s all we can do right now. Thank you so much for your help and showing that the strongman community is the best when tough times come upon us. Prayers and condolences to Pa and his beautiful family.”
Hall added in a video tribute shared to his YouTube channel: “I just don’t know what his financials are going to be. So, I want to make sure no matter what, the family’s set. You know, they’re not going to have to worry about anything for a few weeks, a few months. I don’t know. Just… let’s just take the load off, and he would do the same for us.”
The fundraising effort comes as tributes continue to flood in from across the world of Strongman, bodybuilding, and fitness — from close friends and fellow athletes to fans who admired Pa’s authenticity, humour, and heart.
Strongman Eddie Jo Williams reflected on social media, sharing photos and videos alongside the message: “Stoked to meet you and be apart of your life bro going to miss seeing your face at comps you were my biggest fan and you never shied away from encouraging me and helping me and I loved that you always.”
Fellow Strongman Luke Richardson posted a deeply emotional tribute on Facebook, writing: “To my best mate and the best c**t I ever met.
“Life will not be the same without you. I can’t comprehend that you’re not here anymore. Anyone who was lucky enough to know Pa knows how much of a people magnet he was. You just wanted to be near him. His entire personality was infectious. Authenticity radiated from him and inspired the same in others. You could literally see people’s barriers get broken down in real time at the absolute absurdity of his completely unhinged and unfiltered thought process, all of which was done out loud for our viewing pleasure. Truly a one of one. The brutal reality of your uniqueness and massive presence is that your absence leaves an equal void that will never be filled. You were a fiercely loyal friend who was never scared to say what he thought regardless of repercussion (or openly welcomed it intentionally in most cases).
“You celebrated the success of those close to you like it was your own with no jealousy or envy, you wanted to see us all win. It was impossible to have a bad day around you, which I utilised to the fullest during some of the hardest times of my life as you helped coach and roast me through them in equal measure.
“Beyond the rage baiting which occupied 99% of your personality, and the most vulgar, dry, and sarcastic sense of humour ever conceived was a sensitive man who cared very deeply. No more than for Layna, his kids, and his family, who he loved more than anything. You guys were his whole world. You were a genuine force for good. It feels so unfair that you’re gone, despite already achieving so much you were just getting started and had so much more to give. I’m not sure what a lot of us are going to do, it’s very quiet already. As someone that could’ve been best mates with literally anyone, I feel honoured and privileged that you picked me. I love you and you will be dearly missed. Until we meet again c**t.”
Bodybuilder and fitness advocate Joey Swoll also paid tribute, writing: “Brother I am devastated. I just talked to you. I’m in shock. Thank you for always checking on me, always having my back, and being one of the best people in this industry and on this planet. Prayers to your family and loved ones. You will be more than missed. RIP my brother.”
Sharing a heartfelt video montage of memories, Luke Stoltman added: “You made people smile. You made days brighter. But most of all, you were our friend, Pa. Thanks for everything. We love you.”
Pa O’Dwyer’s impact reached far beyond his incredible athletic achievements. Known for winning Ireland’s Strongest Man five times and becoming the first Irishman to claim the title of UK’s Strongest Man in 2018, Pa was equally admired for his authenticity and compassion. He gained a devoted following online for speaking out against negativity in the fitness industry, standing up for others, and spreading positivity and humour.
His last social media post, an Instagram Story, showed him building a Marvel Venom Lego set with his son — a touching glimpse of the devoted father behind the strength and charisma. He jokingly captioned it: “Took all day only..”
As fans and fellow athletes continue to process the loss, the strength community has united in remembrance of a man who gave so much of himself to others. Giants Live described him as “a true strongman, an even greater human being, and without doubt one of the funniest, most unforgettable characters the world has ever known,” while the Irish Strength Association remembered him as “a legend in strength sports in Ireland” who represented his country with immense pride.
Our thoughts at this time continue to go out to Pa’s family, loved ones, and fans.
Featured image credit: GoFundMe/ Instagram / @paodwyer_
