The funeral mass of Ashling Murphy heard how her family had been robbed of a most precious gift - a gift that only gave joy, love, fun and laughter to many - beyond the bounds of her own home
Those were the words of Parish priest Father Michael Meade who is the chief celebrant at Ashling's funeral mass at Saint Brigid's church
Ashling's family and close friends are being joined by President, Taoiseach, and Justice Minister as mourners gathered at the funeral mass in Mount Bolus, Co. Offaly for the
23 year old teacher
Ashling has been remembered as a kind, talented, loved and admired young woman whose 1st class pupils formed a guard of honour outside the church, while her colleagues and friends played music throughout the mass
Vigils took place across Ireland and beyond across the weekend as the nation stopped to remember the 23-year-old who was found dead after going for a run on the banks of the Grand Canal in Tullamore.
Fr Meade began the funeral ceremony by describing the offerings representing Ashling's life as they were presented at the foot of the altar.
"We have musical instruments, representing her great love of music, and how she shared it with so many and taught so many.
"We have a family photograph, family was everything.
"We have a heroes from Kilcormac Killoughey, a jersey she wore with pride and glee.
"We have a hurl, for the sport she loved and played so well, Camogie."
