A community unites in grief after tragedy

A community unites in grief after tragedy

20 January 2016

THE funeral took place yesterday of Castlewellan teenager Ellen Finnegan who tragically lost her life in a house fire in the town during the early hours of Saturday morning.

Members of the emergency services rushed to the scene at Lower Square but despite their frantic attempts they were unable to save the life of the bubbly Assumption Grammar School student who was due to celebrate her 19th birthday next month.

Glowing tributes have been paid to Ellen, who was recently accepted for a place at Liverpool University, by her fellow students, clergy and her school principal. The teenager’s passing occurred on the third anniversary of her mother Niki’s death three years ago.

The day after her death, a prayer service was held at the Assumption with around 200 pupils, teachers and friends taking part. A book of condolence was also opened in her memory.

Yesterday morning, Castlewellan was united in grief for the heart-breaking funeral service held at St Malachy’s Church when the town came to a standstill, with businesses closing as a mark of respect.

The service of Requiem Mass was held just a short distance from Ellen’s home. The church was  to capacity with several hundred mourners standing outside where they were joined by young people from a number of local schools, Castlewellan GAC and members of the Fire and Rescue Service.

Delivering the homily, Fr Sean Cahill said he knew Ellen’s father Bartley cherishes his last conversation with his daughter when she said to him, “I love you daddy.”

Fr Cahill said: “Our memories of Ellen will always remain young and vibrant. Her school friends and teachers speak of her as ‘lighting up any classroom she entered.’ Her family relatives and friends will remember her enthusiasm on the ski slopes, on the camogie and football pitches and her endurance at cross-country running.”

He said Ellen died “suddenly, tragically and in a way that leaves us all feeling numb and helpless.”