Mayo community pays heartbreaking farewell to Regina
SCENES of extraordinary emotion permeated St. Mary's Church in Drummin, Westport, this afternoon as the remains of Regina Duffy (Donoghue) were accompanied to the altar by her family to say a heartbreaking farewell, writes CLAIRE McNAMARA.
The church is situated just outside Westport and overlooks the Sheeffry mountains, which were enshrouded by a veil of mist and fog throughout her Requiem Mass.
After a long and valiant battle with cancer, Regina slipped peacefully from this world on Monday, and her passing has cast a pall of sadness over the town and further afield.
The strain of Irish music performed before the ceremony by Sean Keane, in collaboration with other musicians, created an ethereal atmosphere that captured the hearts of all those present.
Home Away From Home, Ave Maria and Never Alone, which were sung by Sean, reflected the poignancy of her death.
Symbols brought to the altar representing a life well lived were a family photo, wedding ring, passport to highlight her love of travel, her dictionary as it resembled her ability to speak five different languages, a cookbook and her handbag.
Before the Requiem Mass, Regina's husband, Jason, spoke of his immeasurable loss.
He stated: "Today we say goodbye to a wonderful wife, incredible daughter and fantastic sister.
"I'm the luckiest man on earth to have know and married Regina. She would go to the ends of the earth to ensure everyone was looked after.
"We have been robbed of a very special person, who was so young and so full of life.
"She dealt with her illness with fortitude and bravery and has left an indelible mark on those who were lucky enough to have know her.
"I'm privileged that I can call you my wife.
"We are truly humbled by the outpouring of support over the last number of years and indeed since news of Regina's passing broke.
"Regina loved teaching and had a tremendous sense of humor. Many of the comments left on her Facebook page reflect her dedication to teaching and the love she had for her students.
"She was talented in so many ways, but most of all the love she showed for her family and friends was endless."
The church erupting into heartfelt applause.
Regina's sister Adele also spoke of their devastating loss and captured the essence of her beloved sister.
"It was a true honour to mind and care for you.
"You were a fabulous and courageous person and bore your illness with stoicism.
"Now I have two friends in heaven both you and mam.
"I take comfort in the fact that you used to remind me that everyday may not be wonderful, but there is something wonderful in everyday.”
The Bishop of Killaloe Fintan Monaghan concelebrated the Funeral Mass, assisted by other clergy.
In his homily, Fr. Charlie McDonnell, Adm, Westport, spoke of gathering today with heavy hearts.
“Regina was deeply loved by all who knew her and it is heartbreaking to be here today.
“She was loving, giving and kind and lived her life for others.
“Despite all efforts made to give her the best chance of life, sadly it wasn’t meant to be.
“There are no human words to describe the suffering here, the clouds are down and the pain is palpable.
“But we must give thanks also for the life she had and lived so honourably.
“We walk away with hope filled hearts today that Regina is at peace.
“May the angels protect you, trouble neglect you and heaven accept you when it’s time to go home”.
The hauntingly lamentful and serene music wafted throughout the church, evoking an immense sense of sadness, which moved many within the capacity congregation to tears.
The hazy winter sunshine momentarily peeped through the low-lying, lead-grey clouds, as the cortege made the poignant journey to Shannon Crematorium.
Predeceased by her mother Julia, Regina is sadly missed by her husband Jason, father Michael, sister Adele, brothers Martin and Patrick. brother-in-law, sisters-in-law, nieces, nephews, relatives and friends, to whom heartfelt sympathy is tendered.