Huge congregation at funeral mass hears of couples love
The only daughter of Larry and Martina Hayes has buried her parents today on what is her birthday, the huge congregation at the funeral mass of the couple in Ss Peter and Paul’s Church heard earlier.
Canon Liam Devine, in his homily, addressed their daughter Sinead at the funeral mass today, stating: “We don’t have to wait for Holy Week to experience Good Friday. This is a Calvary moment for the Hayes family and for you, Sinéad. We, in the parish community, walk the Way of the Cross with you, in prayerful solidarity and quiet compassion.
“It’s particularly sad because today’s your birthday. Could anyone think of a sadder or more heart-rending way to celebrate your birthday than to attend the funeral of both of your parents?”
Speaking on behalf of the Hayes and Kelly families, Michael Hayes, brother of the late Lonnie, said: “The events of last Friday robbed us of a wonderful couple.”
“I’ve seen them described as soulmates, which indeed they were... It was said that if Martina climbed a wall, Lonnie would be there beside her.
“Looking at them here side by side as they always were, I think they would have turned and said to each other, 'In my life, I have loved you more.’”