The family of the late Joey Forker has extended their heartfelt thanks and appreciation to everyone who supported them through their devastating loss, ahead of his Month’s Mind Mass which will take place this Saturday.

Nine-year-old Joey sadly passed away in Dungloe on Friday, August 22, following a tragic incident.

His mother Audrey, father Joe, and brothers Jason and Jordan took to social media to express their deep gratitude to all who offered support in the aftermath of the tragedy.

This includes members of the emergency services, including An Garda Síochána, the fire service, ambulance staff and paramedics, as well as all those who attended the scene.

They offered a special thanks to Fr. Pat Ward, who administered the last rites to their son.

“We are so grateful for your presence and the peace you brought to our family during this extremely difficult time,” they said.

The family also expressed appreciation to those who sent Mass and sympathy cards, left messages of condolence online and in person and sent floral tributes to their home.

“All who kindly brought food to the house, Sharkey’s Top Service Station, Pizza Max Dungloe, Gallaghers Foodstore Gweedore, Hookd Coffee, Paidi Oigs and the Waterfront Hotel Dungloe.

“All who helped in any way, we thank you,” the post read.

A heartfelt thank you was also extended to those who travelled long distances to be with the family following the tragic incident.

Joey, who was a pupil at Scoil Chróine in Dungloe, was honoured by his schoolmates who performed a Guard of Honour at his removal. The family expressed deep gratitude to the school and all of the local people who lined the streets from the funeral home to their home in Meenmore in a moving tribute.

Sincere thanks were extended to Fr. Séan O’Gallachóir and Fr. Brian Ó Fearraigh P.P., Derrybeg, for calling to the house and offering blessings.

Heartfelt thanks were also extended to Fr. Johnny Moore P.P. and the concelebrating priests for the lovely Requiem Mass.

“Their involvement brought comfort, and we are so grateful for your thoughtfulness and compassion during our time of sorrow,” they added.

Martin O’Donnell was deeply appreciated by the family for all he did, offering comfort when it was needed most. Patrick McLaughlin of SIGNZ was thanked for the beautiful stickers created in Joey’s memory and Wild Atlantic Flowers who provided beautiful wreaths.

Special thanks were also extended to Brid Winnie for her photographs and for capturing and sharing cherished memories of Joey.

“Their support during this time was very much appreciated,” the family said.

Mourners carry the remains of little Joey Forker from St Crona’s Church, Dungloe, following his funeral Mass.

The family also thanked everyone for honouring Joey’s short life by attending the funeral.

“A special thanks to Shannon and Fr. Séan O’Gallachóir for doing the readings and to the cousins for prayers of the faithful, and to Pauline Glackin for the beautiful music throughout the mass.”

The family shared their gratitude to James Coll, Joey’s Godfather, for writing and delivering a beautiful eulogy in his memory and to Lee and Jamie for organising all Joey’s favourite cars.

They  thanked Shaun McGlynn funeral director along with Josie Gallagher, for their professionalism and dignity.

“Your patience, understanding, kindness and attention to detail, made a challenging time more bearable.”

They also thanked the gravediggers Padraig McGee & Son of Magheragallon Cemetery for preparing Joey’s final resting place alongside his Nana and Papa Friel.

“As it is impossible to thank everybody individually, please accept this acknowledgement as a token of our appreciation and gratitude at this sad time.”

Joey’s Month’s Mind Mass will take place on Saturday,  September 20 at 11.00 am in St. Crona’s Church, Dungloe.