Young Roscommon man 'displayed kindness and genuine care for others' - funeral hears

Young Roscommon man Liam Dunne was remembered for displaying “kindness and genuine care for others” at his funeral Mass in the Church of the Sacred Heart, Roscommon today, Saturday.

Liam, from Ballyleague and formerly of Antogher Road, Roscommon Town, passed away suddenly on Tuesday.

Parish priest Fr. Kevin Fallon was joined by Fr. Joe Fitzgerald, Ballyleague parish priest, Fr. Daniel Udolia and Stranorlar (County Donegal) parish priest, Fr. Kieran McAteer.

During the Mass Fr. Fallon highlighted Liam’s passion for sport and his involvement with Roscommon Gaels GAA club and Roscommon Town Soccer Club.

Last weekend Liam qualified from a course held in Galway to become an FAI qualified referee. Fr. Fallon also told the congregation that Liam had recently received an offer for his first choice college degree course in electrical engineering from the University of Limerick.

The impact of the young man’s death has rippled across the local community, “the entire communities of Roscommon and Ballyleague feel it, but are also praying and rooting for Liam’s family this day,” Fr. Fallon said.

Addressing Liam’s twin brother, Rory, Fr. Fallon said that the Lord will be providing His support to the Dunne family during this difficult period.

“We believe the Lord is looking after you Rory, as He is your sister Clara, your mam Róisín and your dad Gary, and all of your grandparents, relatives and friends.” 

Liam’s family, young people and his predeceased family members were prayed for during the Prayers of the Faithful.

Speaking on behalf of the family, Clara, Liam’s older sister, expressed her sincere gratitude to the community for the help and support they have provided to the  family.

In her eulogy, Clara described the effect Liam had on the people in his life. “His laughter was contagious and his smile was infectious. Liam had this warm, playful smile and beautiful blue eyes that could light up a room in an instant. Liam loved having fun more than anyone," she said. 

Clara also remembered her brother’s deep passion for soccer. “The pitch was a second home to him, and the people he shared it with meant the world to him. Whether it was cheering on from the sidelines, watching a game from home, kicking a ball around or simply being part of the team, it brought happiness and a sense of purpose to him.” 

Speaking about their parents, Clara said it was “as if they were handpicked for him. They went down every single possible avenue looking for answers to Liam's condition, be that conventional or alternative. Mum and dad, the care and love that you have shown to Liam is unmatched and unwavering.” 

Mass concluded with a touching rendition of the John Lennon song, ‘Beautiful Boy’.

Following Funeral Mass, Liam  was laid to rest in St. Coman’s Cemetery.

Cherished son of Róisín and Gary, and much-loved twin brother of Rory and loving brother of Clara. He will be forever missed and lovingly remembered by his family, grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins, and his wide circle of friends.