The Funeral Mass for 21-year-old Shay Duffy has taken place this afternoon at St Patrick’s Church in Rockchapel Co. Monaghan.
He was one of five young friends who died in last weekend’s crash in Co. Louth.
Symbols reflecting his life, including family photos, his work trousers, his boots and items linked to his love of cars, were brought forward before the Mass.
The service was led by Father Ben Hughes, and attended by President Catherine Connolly, with crowds gathering to pay their respects as the community united in grief.
Fr Hughes told mourners that Shay lived a full life despite his young age, highlighting his professional achievements, skills in plumbing, and his love for restoring cars and tractors.
He also spoke of Shay’s character, praising his kindness, helpfulness, and positive spirit within his family and community.
Fr Hughes said the mass is a moment to reflect, pray, and seek comfort, asking God to grant Shay eternal rest.
Homily delivered by Father Hughes - "In the Gospel that we have just heard, Christ reassured those who had gathered and says; ‘Come to me all you who labour and are overburdened and I will give you rest for your souls’. And rest is exactly what we want when we experience the heartfelt loss of our beloved Shay Duffy.
At the young age of 21, Shay has lived a very full and impactful life. Shay is warmly remembered and deeply loved by many and in particular by his dedicated parents Carmel, Raymond and his brothers Vinny and Ben.
As we prayerfully celebrate and reflect on Shay’s life, we know that after completing his schooldays in Scoil Bhríde and in the Patrician High School, Shay undertook an apprenticeship in plumbing completing his studies in Technological University of the Shannon in Athlone, and in Dundalk Institute of Technology.
Shay successfully completed his training in practical skills and theoretical knowledge qualifying him to work to the highest standard in this trade; as well as completing his RGI qualification, all of which happened under the loving supervision of his own father Raymond and the encouragement of his mother Carmel. Truly a sacred story with Biblical sentiment.
Furthermore, Shay was a genius in the restoration of cars and tractors … this was his pride and joy … Apart of course from the RM Williams Belt and the Boots which he stylishly wore.
In addition to Shay's professional qualifications, Shay was an initiator who was project driven, always on the go, confident and a problem solver. What fine gifts … gifts that allowed Shay to make a contribution both here in this very church, in school and elsewhere.
Moreover, Shay, as a child of God and of our community, he had great character; expressed in his spirit of helping, goodwill, laughter and kindness reflecting the values of God.
Today, as we gather in solidarity as a Eucharistic People we are starkly reminded that, for all of us, life can be unpredictable. And so as we navigate the sadness that has accidentally befallen us, Christ as the Good Shephard invites us to go towards sheltering places where as todays Gospel says, we can find rest for our souls.
But for now, Carmel, Raymond, Vinny, Ben and Zara and all who mourn: May God grant you the blessing that you dearly need, in abundance.
And for our beloved Shay - Forever 21:
May Shay’s light continue to shine;
May the Holy Angels of God embrace him lovingly;
May Shay enjoy God’s kindly welcome and eternal rest.
May we lovingly remember him, forever Forever 21. Amen!"
