Profound sorrow was occasioned by the death of Michael Carey, Moonlaun, who was a deservedly popular member of a long established local family.

This was amply illustrated by the large numbers attending the removal from his residence to Holy Cross Church for requiem mass prior to burial in St Declan's Cemetery. The remains were received and blessed by Fr Michael Toomey who said that they had already brought forward symbols to the memorial table very much reminders of Michaels's time with Tramore GAA: the hurley, sliotar and medals he had won and the club jersey he wore with pride and indeed bravery on many occasions. We prayed that the Lord would bless Michael's family and friends and all gathered around him. The reading about the transformation we are given a little chink of light into what is ahead of us and that should be for all who mourn Michael a great consolation. Jesus allowed his disciples to see into the future, to see into heaven in all its tranquility.

The new life our faith tells us that we are going to have with the Lord is something great and very different. The body that Michael was given to take him on the pilgrimage through life was one that imposed on him a great amount of suffering. Although only in his 40s Michael was diagnosed with leukaemia, through the great care and attention that he received from all his family and parents, they brought him to this point. It wasn't always a time of suffering as the sporting symbols showed but so often he went through the valley of darkness of sickness. God loves us more when we are in pain as it draws us closer to him. Michael was very much part of the Lourdes scene, going there as a child and as a brancardier and helper. Coming closer to Christ along the way.

Thanks went to the Eucharistic Ministers in the parish, especially Sean who brought him Holy Communion so many times. Michael's friends who were so close to him will give thanks that Michael has come to the new life of the resurrection.
The prayers of the faithful remembered all who had gone before Michael, his grandparents, his aunt Mary, cousin Mark and uncle Jim. We prayed for those who cared for Michael, Mr Smith and his team, Dr Walls and his team, all the nurses and staff of St Vincents in Dungarvan. Dawn shared with the congregation a communion reflection: God saw you getting tired when a cure was not to be, so he wrapped his arms around you and whispered come to me.

You didn't deserve what you went through, so he gave you rest, God's garden must be beautiful, he only takes the best.
Sincere sympathy in their sad loss is extended to his parents, Rene and PJ, sisters Ann, Edwina and Christine; nephews, nieces and extended family. May he rest in peace.

- Courtesy of Waterford News & Star, March 20th 2012 Tweet

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