RIP: 'Overwhelming compassion' as Leitrim teenage crash victim laid to rest

The funeral Mass has been celebrated for Dessie O'Kelly, the teenager tragically killed in a road crash during the week in Carrigallen, Co Leitrim.

The chief celebrant told the congregation "we have all been shocked and deeply saddened by the death of Dessie at such a young and tender age. That is our feelings. What must it be for his parents and sister - for the O'Kelly and O'Rourke families?". 

Gifts presented during the Funeral Mass included a photograph of Dessie "to remember happier times", a rosette for the sheep competition which he won at Ballinamore Agricultural Show, a tractor representing Dessie's love of farming, a mobile phone - representing his connection with his family and friends.

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The funeral Mass heard there is an "overwhelming sense of compassion" in Carrigallen, Drumeela and Drumreilly since the O'Kelly and O'Rourke families lives were "turned upside down on Tuesday afternoon". 

"Over the past few days people have spoken of how words are woefully inadequate to try and express comfort at this time. Your presence here today and over the last few days is enough," the funeral congregation heard. 

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The death of the late Dessie O'Kelly is deeply regretted by his heartbroken parents Gene and Teresa, his sister Clara and his girlfriend Chloe. Dessie will be sadly missed by his grandmother Moira O' Rourke, aunts, uncles, cousins, grand-uncle, grand-aunts and his many friends.

Following the Funeral Mass in St. Mary's Church, Drumeela on Easter Sunday at 2pm burial took place afterwards in the adjoining cemetery.

Since the shock news of the death of Dessie O'Kelly on Tuesday, tributes have flowed for the popular young man from Drumloona, Carrigallen.

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