The family of Alex Coughlan, who died three days after being seriously assaulted in Blanchardstown in a “completely unprovoked” attack on Sunday 17 May, have asked in a poignant video tribute to him online that he be remembered as the “beautiful human being” that he was.
The video begins with a touching clip of Alex reading to his baby nephew, before images of the smiling young man are shown. “May Alex’s kind and gentle soul rest in peace” the memorial continues, remembering him as a son and sibling, a stepson and brother-in-law, uncle and father figure, nephew and cousin, friend, neighbour and colleague.
Alex was a “beautiful human being” the video shares, and a “gentle soul” who loved life and was “loved by all”. A “nicer guy you’d never meet” was the description of the young man.
“He adored his loved ones” and “he was selfless, peaceful, patient and hard-working,” the tribute continues, adding that Alex was “clever and funny” with “an infectious laugh”.
In a heart-breaking conclusion, the tribute says “Alex was defined by his kindness” and urges: “Carry out an act of kindness in honour of him today”. #AlexCoughlan #SpeakHisName #RememberAlex #RememberHim
Asking for the message to be shared, Susanne Delaney said: “Alex Coughlan’s family asked me to share this beautiful, touching clip of him reading to his little nephew. It really conveys the type of person Alex was.”
“If you would like to get to know who Alex was and how he lived his life, then please watch the duration of this short memorial video in his honour. Please also take part in what is asked at the end of the video, and also use these hashtags when sharing: #AlexCoughlan #RememberHim #SpeakHisName “
“Let’s keep his name and face in the public eye. Make sure this memorial video reaches every person in this country and beyond. Share it with everyone you know. Share it the world over. Never forget Alex,” she continued.
“It is important to keep this post and all comments about HIM. Please. For this one post. Do this in memory of Alex. Because one cruel and final indignity that is visited upon those who have had their lives stolen is the fact that the unforgivable act can end up defining that person in the public eye by that very act itself,” she continued.
“Who the person was can be lost amidst the tragedy. Alex was someone I would have loved to know. I wish I’d had that great privilege and I know he comes from an amazing family. They will read these comments most likely. So please be mindful of that. Thank you.”
And she later added: “Alex’s family and friends may read the comments. Please keep the comments about Alex and who he was for this post and this video. Please use hashtags (see post) and also complete the request in the video. Thank you all.”
Previously, Alex’s family asked that he “be remembered for the wonderful person he was and the love and laughter he brought to so many”.
Mr Coughlan’s family said: “It is with deep sadness that we share the heartbreaking, tragic passing of our beloved Alex Coughlan on Sunday, 17th May 2026.”
“Alex was truly loved by everyone who had the privilege of knowing him. His kindness, warmth, and presence touched so many lives, and he will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all who knew him,” they wrote.
“In an incredible final act of kindness and generosity, Alex’s organs have been donated to help others in need — a lasting gift that reflects the caring and selfless person he was.”
“”During this incredibly difficult time, Alex’s family would like to sincerely thank all the staff involved in his care at Connolly Hospital, Blanchardstown for their compassion, support, and kindness. They would also like to thank all family and friends who have been there for them with messages, visits, prayers, and support over the past days.”
“Most importantly, the family ask that Alex be remembered for the wonderful person he was and the love and laughter he brought to so many,” they said.
Mr Coughlan, who lived in Blanchardstown and worked for insurance firm, BUPA, had worked in sales for companies Sky and PayPal, and previously attended Castleknock Community College.
Last Sunday, hundreds of people gathered for a vigil in his memory at the place where he was attacked.
His death notice on RIP.ie reads: “Horrifically taken from his family and friends. Alex will be forever missed and loved by his heartbroken parents John and Brigid, stepmother Sonia, brothers Philip and Jack, sister Zara, sister-in-law Grace, aunts, uncles, niece Kailyn, nephews George, Louie and Lúan, his adored “son” who has been robbed of his father figure Filimon, close cousins, extended family and wide circle of fantastic friends and work colleagues at Bupa.”