Killian’s time ‘cut too short’

The Crosserlough teenager who lost his life in a tragic swimming accident last week was lovingly remembered as the family’s “golden child” in a deeply moving funeral this afternoon.

Fifteen-year-old Killian Casey from Rockfield got into difficulty in the water on Tuesday afternoon at Lough Sheelin. He sadly passed away in Temple Street Hospital as a result of his injuries on Thursday. At his funeral Mass today (Tuesday) the St Clare’s student was remembered as a talented footballer, a young boy with a passion for farming, and most importantly a loving son and brother.

Fr Paul Casey, an uncle of Killian based in Dromahair, was the chief celebrant for requiem Mass, and said his nephew would be remembered for his cheeky smile and that wonderful glint in his eyes.

Tributes continued with his heart broken sisters Megan and Chloe. Megan told the mourners: “Nothing in this world can prepare you for this amount of pain. So I am sorry – sorry that nobody will or ever could understand the two of us or the bond we had.”

She continued: “Mostly I am sorry for not saying goodbye - our time was cut too short – we still have so many tears and laughs, giggles, slaps across the face to share. But as I tell myself, you were far too good for this world. Even though I cannot see you Killian, your big sister needs you now more than ever.”

Chloe described her brother as “a unique character”.

“Some people knew Killian as a quiet young chap, but anyone who was fortunate enough to know the real Killian, knew Killian was far from quiet.

“Killian was the golden child as the youngest and he got away with murder.

“He used to sing the song, ‘The Day The World Shut Down’. Everyone in the house knew every lyric. We will continue to sing that song because last Thursday, it really did feel like the day the world shut down.”

Symbols that were brought to the altar reflected the teenager’s passions in life. They included a tractor, which illustrated his love for farming and looking forward to getting his tractor licence to help save the silage and the bales.

Also included was a picture as an illustration of his love for family, and a speaker reflecting his passion for music. A Crosserlough number 7 jersey, the number he donned the last time he played, scoring two goals, was then draped on Killian’s coffin to accompany the array of beautiful flowers.

Killian is sadly missed by his heartbroken parents Fiona and Martin, sisters Chloe and Megan; brother David; grandparents Frankie and Kitty McCaul, Agnes Casey (Joe Casey Predeceased); aunts, uncles, cousins, extended family and his many friends.