Funeral of fire victims tomorrow

Community plunged into darkness as it prepares for day of sadness

The funeral of the three family members who tragically died in an overnight fire in Manorhamilton will take place tomorrow. Dessie McDonald (75), his wife Patsie (77) and their 34 year-old daughter died when a fire ripped through their home in Lisnabrack during the early hours of Saturday morning. Prayers were said for the family across the region in churches yesterday.

Their remains will be reposing at Our Lady’s Hospital Chapel, Manorhamilton this evening from 5 until 7pm, with removal to the Church of the Annunciation Mullies arriving at 7.30 pm. Funeral Mass will take place tomorrow morning at eleven o’clock followed by Dessie’s internment in the adjoining Cemetery. The remains of Patsy and Patricia will be brought directly afterwards to Mount Jerome Crematorium, Dublin for cremation.

Fianna Fáil councillor, Tony Ferguson said the entire area has been devastated by the tragedy.

He said: “The community have been numbed by this travesty. It has been a terrible shock to everybody. I know the family and they were extremely respected and well known.”