"A family so deeply loved and so highly regarded — not just in their local community, but far beyond it"
The funeral mass of the three members of the O'Connor family, who were found dead at their home in Drumgowna last week, has taken place in Dundalk today.
Mourners heard that Louise, her husband Mark and their son Evan, were part of a family deeply loved and highly regarded — not just in their local community, but far beyond it.
A pair of runners, an A-Ha album and a pair of odd socks were among the items brought to the altar at today's funeral mass to remember Louise, Mark and Evan O'Connor.
The odd socks were tied in a knot - the last pair that 27-year-old Evan tied himself.
Chief celebrant Fr Gerry Campbell said that what shines through every memory, every message, and every tear is the deep love that Mark and Louise had for each other, and the boundless love they both had for Evan.
"Mark knew what it meant to labour — not just in his work, but in his calling to justice and compassion. Whether it was through Inclusion Ireland, advocating for people with disabilities, or co-founding the ABACAS School, Mark gave himself completely for the good of others. He was a man of quiet integrity, of deep conviction, and of steady purpose" Fr. Campbell told mourners.
"And now Louise. In the second reading, Saint Paul says, “I want you to be happy, always happy in the Lord.” That captures something of Louise. She was full of life — talkative, warm, musical, and compassionate. Her love of singing, her laughter, her care as a nurse, her devotion to her family — all were expressions of a heart alive with love".
Fr. Campbell said Evan's joy was pure, his smile could light up a room and his love was unfiltered and wholehearted: "When we think of Evan — his love of holidays, of swimming, of his colourful odd socks and bright tee-shirts. His love of Thomas the Tank Engine — His joy in going to the Hub Praxis in Drogheda, his love of theme parks, aqua aerobics, going with his Dad to the Park Runs …in all of this we see a young man who brought light and joy to those around him".
At the conclusion of his homily, Fr Campbell also appealed for a greater focus on mental health issues and their impact on families: "But perhaps, as we gather here today, there are families across this country quietly wondering, “How close are we to something like this happening in our own home?” Given that Mark devoted his life to advocating for the disability sector and for those in need, it would be remiss of me not to echo his spirit and appeal for greater care, compassion, and resources for mental health in our nation. We cannot bring them back — but we can honour them by ensuring that no other family has to walk this road alone".
At the end of today's funeral mass, Mark and Louise's son Cian spoke about his parents and brother Evan: "Our family had a bond, one of understanding, patience, care and love. Robert, Shauna and I will miss you so much for the rest of our lives and now it's our turn to look after each other.
"The coming weeks, months and years will be tough without you with us. It is when the dust has settled and the quietness of our beloved cottage home lingers it would be the hardest. But don't worry about us, we have each other. So many others looking out for us. I'm well minded by so many.
"We love you and we will carry you with us forever. Go now and be at peace. Look after yourselves. Finally, together now always".
