By Róise Collins
THE funeral of Shane Gillespie has heard how he made an impact on so many people during his short time in this world.
The 39-year-old from Keenaghan, Kilmacrennan and formerly of Brookfield, Donegal Town died suddenly on Saturday evening.
He was a popular member of the teaching staff at PCC Falcarragh and news of his passing was met with deep shock and sadness among his family, many friends, colleagues and pupils.
Requiem Mass took place in St. Agatha’s Church, Clar, Donegal Town yesterday afternoon where chief celebrant Fr James Gillespie remembered Mr Gillespie as a “man who would light up a room with his presence”.
“Shane lived with us here in this world for just 39 years and in that time he made an impact on so many,” Fr Gillespie told the congregation.
He said Mr Gillespie will be sadly missed by his loving wife Donna, his two daughters Katie and Amy, parents Sean and Rosemarie, sister Gemma and brothers Patrick and Ronan.
“Looking at his life we see someone who has achieved a lot, made an impact and left his mark as a man, husband, father, son, brother, teacher and friend,” Fr Gillespie said.
“He is someone who will be missed sorely by all who knew and loved him.
“He has left many blessings to remember him by, particularly his two daughters, Katie and Amy – the stars of his life.
“Shane was important to all who knew him, cared for him and loved him. It is because of this that his death brings so much grief and sorrow,” added Fr Gillespie.
Mr Gillespie worked in PCC Falcarragh for over 17 years, where he has been remembered as “an inspirational teacher”.
In a moving eulogy his brother Patrick said it has been amazing to learn how special Shane was to so many people.
Patrick spoke of how his parents visited Falcarragh for a special service in Shane’s memory on Tuesday evening, and discovered how their son had been loved by past and present pupils and staff.
“They came home two feet taller,” Patrick said.
The whole family have been taken back by the outpouring of support from communities across Donegal.
Among the gifts offered symbolising Mr Gillespie’s life were a gaelic football and a rugby jersey from Donegal Town RFC.
Sport was a very important part of his life; likewise he had a massive impact on sport across the county. This was clear by the outpouring of moving tributes made by various teams.
Donegal Town RFC described him as a player, friend and role model who embodied everything good about their club.
CLG An Tearmainn, where he coached one of the club’s underage ladies teams, described Mr Gillespie as an “absolute gentleman”.
“Shane had a way of making the girls feel 10 feet tall with his encouraging words and kind manner,” a spokesperson said.
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