Heartbreak in Milford as Connor McGinley is laid to rest

The people of MIlford lined the town’s streets as the funeral cortege of Connor McGinly made its way from his home in Quay Road, Drumbern to St Peter’s Church.

The 19-year-old tragically lost his life in a single vehicle collision near Kerrykeel at around 3.30am on Saturday morning.

Known affectionately at DJ Curly, Connor’s untimely death has sent shockwaves through the community.

Heartbreakingly evident among the mourners arriving at St Peter’s Church on Thursday morning were many young people. Only just entering adulthood themselves, young men in white shirts and black ties, young women with their arms linked, all endeavoured to support and comfort each other as the church bells punctuated the sombre procession.  

Rev Stephen Gorman had a special word for Connor’s friend Jayden who was in the car with him when the tragic collision occurred. 

“It is great to have him here and to see that he is making a recovery,” said Rev Gorman. “He has been a great comfort to Connor’s family.”

Jayden was also mentioned in the Prayers of the Faithful.

Rev Gorman offered condolences to Connor’s family - his parents Ennis and Noelle, brother Dennis, cousin Caitlin, grandfather Patrick McGinley and extended family. The celebrant also had a mention for the family’s beloved 15-year-old dog who has been extremely subdued throughout the last few days.

“Words are woefully inadequate to express the pain and the sorrow in our hearts that we have for the McGinley family,” said Rev Gorman.

He described news of Connor’s death as ‘a devastating shock’ that was met with an overwhelming sense of compassion for the bereaved family.

Rev Gorman told mourners that Connor was born on March 24, 2004. He attended Scoil Mhuire, Milford, and went on to complete his secondary school education at Mulroy College. 

He was only six weeks from completing a Diploma in horticulture.

Rev Gorman said: “He loved every moment of his course and all the people he encountered there.”

A keen sportsman, Connor loved athletics and along with his brother Denis, competed for Ireland in Manchester. He also enjoyed ju jitsu and football, and was a dedicated supporter of Liverpool FC.

Rev Gorman recounted how Connor had a favourite spot, a rock near his house where he went for a daily walk and to have ‘a wee smoke.’

But the biggest love of Connor’s life was music. 

“From the age of four, Connor fell in love with music, and music played a huge part in Connor’s life,” said Rev Gorman. 

“He was mixing his own music from the age four. He deejayed for all his friends’ 18th birthdays.

“He enjoyed a good party and loved spending time with his friends.”

Rev Gorman spoke of the huge heartache that comes with a young person’s death.

“No parent ever expects to bury their child,” he said. 

The celebrant told Connor’s grieving family that he had heard only ‘the kindest of words’ about Connor since his death. 

“Connor was heading towards the prime of his life with the world at his feet,” said Rev Gorman. He touched so many lives in his 19 years. All we can be grateful for is who Connor  was and what he meant to people who loved him, who liked him, who appreciated home.

“The memories of Connor are always going to be good and warm.”

The celebration concluded with words which Connor’s parents had asked him to convey: “Connor the legend, 19 forever. Connor we will miss your smile that lit up every room and person. We love you, our brown-eyed boy.”

On behalf of the family, Rev Gorman expressed thanks on behalf of Connor’s family to the emergency services, those who attended the scene of the collision, neighbours, friends and parishioners for their support during the wake, all who played a part in the Mass including the choir, those who brought forward gifts and symbols of Connor’s life, and those who did the readings and prayers.

He had a special word of thanks for Connor’s friends for their ‘huge support’ and all they had done for the family at this very difficult time. 

Following the Funeral Mass, Connor was laid to rest in Milford Cemetery.