By Tara McCormack
Pennyburn in Derry fell silent today as family, friends, and members of the community gathered to bid farewell to a beloved young man, Eoghan Dawson, whose life was tragically cut short.
The 20-year-old passed away following a devastating car crash in Inishowen just over a week ago.
On what would have been his 21st birthday, Eoghan’s funeral Mass took place at St. Patrick’s Church in Pennyburn.
Eoghan was the driver in a single-vehicle collision at Cross, Quigley’s Point, shortly before midnight on Saturday, August 24.
The collision also claimed the life of his 16-year-old cousin, Kian Dawson Kirk, who died at the scene.
Eoghan was rushed to the Royal Victoria Hospital in Belfast, where he fought bravely for two days before passing away on Tuesday.
Fr. Sean O’Donnell, who led the funeral Mass in St Patrick’s Church, Pennyburn, reflected on the depth of the loss.
“We gather today, heart’s weighed down by the loss of Eoghan on what would have been his 21st birthday,” he said.
“Birthdays are usually times of joy and celebration. Yet today, we find ourselves in the midst of sorrow. Remembering a life cut short.”
The Mass was an emotional tribute to a young man remembered for his kindness, energy, and deep love for his family, particularly his cousin Kian.
“A young man full of life, of energy, and kindness,” Fr. O’Donnell said.
“A friend to many, and shared a special bond with his cousin Kian.”
Eoghan was a cherished son, the beloved child of Lisa Dawson and Connor Smith.
He was also the adored grandson of Michael and Michelle Dawson and the late Pat and Hugh Smith.
His great-grandmother, May Dawson, along with his extended family of aunts, uncles, and cousins.
During the Mass, Fr. O’Donnell shared reflections from Eoghan’s mother, Lisa, who poignantly described the day of Eoghan’s birth as the moment that changed her life forever.
“She called him ‘my beautiful sunshine’,” Fr. O’Donnell relayed.
Lisa’s words reflected the love, challenges, and unwavering pride she felt for Eoghan, a young man who had become “the inspiration and reason for all her wishes.”
He recited familiar words of scripture, that he knows “is one Lisa always quotes often.”
He shared: “There are many rooms in my Father’s house, and I shall return to take you with me. So that where I am, you may be too.”
The funeral ended with the final act of laying Eoghan to rest, coinciding with the exact time he was born 21 years ago.
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