Derry road accident victim Eoghan Dawson was full of “life, energy and kindness”, mourners at his Requiem Mass have been told.
The 20-year-old victim died at Belfast’s Royal Victoria Hospital two days after suffering critical injuries in a single-car accident at Quigley’s Point in Inishowen, Co Donegal on August 24.
His young cousin Kian Dawson-Kirk, who was a passenger in the car, also died. His funeral took place last Friday.
Fr Sean O’Donnell told mourners that Eoghan’s funeral was taking place on what should have been his 21st birthday. Fr O’Donnell also revealed that he had given the “gift of life” to five other people through the donation of his organs.
A huge crowd accompanied Eoghan’s funeral cortege from his grandparents’ home in Derry’s Belmont estate to St Patrick’s Church, Pennyburn for Requiem Mass on Monday.
Derry mayor Lilian Seenoi-Barr attended along with SDLP assembly member Mark H Durkan. Pupils from his former school, St Columb’s College formed a guard of honour as his remains were brought into the church.
A number of mementoes representing his life were presented to the altar by his patents Lisa and Connor and grandparents Michael and Michelle.
They included a ‘shadow box’ which included his hand print, a lock of his hair and heart trace represented the donation of his organs. A t-shirt for Emerge Fitness and a coffee cup as well as a watch also represented different aspects of his life.
Fr O’Donnell said Eoghan was returning from Malin Head pier when the fatal accident occurred. He said Malin Head pier was his “favourite place”.
“Eoghan was a young man full of life, energy and kindness. He was a friend to many and shared a special bond his cousin, Kian. As we gather in grief, let us also remember the love, laughter and memories Eoghan brought into our lives,” he said.
Eoghan’s mother described him as her “beautiful son-shine”. He was her inspiration and she was proud of the young man he had become, Fr O’Donnell said.
“Eoghan’s life, though brief, was filled with love, connection and generosity that will live in cherished memories beyond his passing.
“In the midst of our sorrow, we find a glimmer of hope, knowing that Eoghan’s life ending has brought new life to others. Through organ donation, he has given the gift of life to five recipients and his lungs have also been donated for research.”
Following Requiem Mass, Eoghan was laid to rest at Derry city cemetery.
