A SONG popular for a first wedding dance between a father and daughter was poignantly sang at the funeral of bride-to-be Laura Connolly.

‘Butterfly Kisses’ was performed as a special request before the mum-of-one was laid to rest following Requiem Mass in St Patrick’s Church, Murlog, today.

The community of Lifford has been left devastated and stunned following the tragic death of the kind, caring and beautiful young woman, who died in Letterkenny University Hospital shortly after injuries she sustained in a hit and run in Townparks in the early hours of Sunday morning.

Poignantly, Laura had just returned from wedding dress shopping having set a date for her wedding to partner Joe McCullagh for September next year when tragedy struck.

Fr Colm O’Doherty said as the first light of dawn broke on Sunday morning and people awoke to the news that Laura, of Croaghan Heights had died, disbelief, shock and grief enveloped Laura’s loving family and the wider locality.

He said the days since Laura’s tragic death have seemed like an “unreal nightmare” for Laura’s loved ones. But, he said many stories have been told since of Laura, remembering her love of life and sense of humour.

“Since Sunday, I have been asked so many times, ‘what do you say at a time like this?’ My answer is that at this moment there are really no spoken words that can properly ease the hearts and minds of those who are grieving. So instead of words, we use a different kind of language.

“There has been tremendous kindness and solidarity shown by so many good neighbours and friends, who have brought the graces of the community spirit of this parish to the sad homes of Laura’s family. Your presence alone has been so important in so many ways.

“There have been lighter moments too, as people have told stories of the fun-loving, bubbly girl that Laura was and especially of her zest for life. Next year was going to be the year; the date is in the diary when Laura and Joe would become Mr and Mrs, the wedding dress was being picked that last day.”

Fr O’Doherty praised the community for rallying around Laura’s loved ones and friends, providing solidarity and strength.

“The suddenness of Laura’s death has shocked us all. But even in the face of such tragedy the parish community has, through its response, shown its true support and care towards Laura’a family. Whilst knowing that words cannot ease your burden at this time, I am sure that the prayers of everyone near and far are with you this day and we pray in particular that the gifts of joy, goodness, kindness and love that Laura brought to your lives will be graces that will that you will never forget and always be thankful for.”

Laura is survived by her son, Jamie, partner, Joe, parents, Rosemary and Jimmy, brother James and grandmother Theresa and a wide circle of family and friends.