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# RIP
'He gave us 17 golden years of memories' - funeral takes place of Damola Adetosoye
17-year-old Damola lost his life tragically on Tuesday last after getting into trouble while swimming in the River Shannon.
THE FUNERAL OF teenager Damola Adetosoye has heard that the 17-year-old was a ‘gift’ to everyone that knew him.
Damola lost his life tragically last Tuesday after getting into difficulty while swimming in the River Shannon at Termonbarry in Co Roscommon.
Celebrating the funeral mass this morning at St Mel’s Cathedral in Longford town, Father Joseph Okere said that Damola’s life “had scarcely started”.
“Nevertheless, it had started already and he has given us 17 golden years of memories of joy, love, and life,” said Okere.
We do not judge a life by how long it is but by how well it was lived. Children understand this, that is why they are so free, spirited, boisterous, and always themselves.
“Such was he life of Damola, who died while living the life,” Okere said.
We are thankful to God for the gift Damola was to all of us, what he taught us.
Earlier, the two readings had been given by Damola’s brothers Aaron and Victor.
Damola was a member of the Under 16 team with Clonguish GAA Club at Newtownforbes, Co. Longford.
The team posted on its Facebook page about the tragedy on Tuesday night.
“The Club has been deeply saddened to learn of the tragic loss of Damola Adetosoye which occurred this evening following a tragic drowning accident in Termonbarry,” the club said.
Damola was a member of our U16 team and our thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends at this very sad and difficult time. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam.
A photograph of the team and a football trophy were among the symbols presented at the funeral, representing Damola’s “commitment to his team and to his club”.
Damola is survived by his parents Helen and Adekunle, brothers Victor and Aaron, and sisters Mercy and Sharon.
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