Edenderry man remembered for his ‘heart of gold’

The late Paul 'Babs' Connolly was remembered as someone who loved family, the music of Bruce Springsteen and the film 'Rocky Balboa'.

A moving funeral service took place in Edenderry on Tuesday to remember the deceased man who passed away tragically following an incident in Athlone last weekend.

Paul's nephews, Robbie and Jim, and his friend, Sean, brought gifts to the altar to symbolise Paul's interests.

Robbie offered a DVD and CD, to represent his love of music and movies, Sean offered weights from the gym, and Jim offered a family photo to symbolise Paul's love for family.

Fr Petru Medvef described Paul as a “very funny" man who had “a heart of gold” and loved the film 'Rocky Balboa'.

“He enjoyed "passing on his love of film and music to his nieces and nephews. He had great faith and prayed everyday.”

A poignant final eulogy was given by Paul's niece Shauna who said she was honoured to speak on behalf of the Connolly family.

Shauna started by saying: “Babs' life will not be reduced to unpleasant headlines or media soundbites. What happened to Paul was cruel and unjust and we as a family will fight for justice on behalf of our fallen family member.”

Paul's niece added that since his death she realised that grief is just love with no place to go.

“All of us have known Babs in a variety of ways, brother, uncle, cousin and loving friend but it's safe to say that however Babs entered your life, he added to it in his own unique way.

“Babs made some great memories with those who loved him.”

Shauna continued: “As an uncle, Babs was a huge influence on all his nieces and nephews. He was always happy to share his passions with us including his love for music, films, books, motorbikes and cycling.

“He introduced us all to his favourite singers and bands such as Queen, Thin Lizzy, Guns n’ Roses, and of course Bruce Springsteen, who were always blasting out of his record player up in Bridie’s house. I remember Paul playing ‘Bohemian Rhapsody’ for me for the first time and it absolutely blew my mind.”

Paul’s nephew Michael said those songs have now become the soundtrack to their childhood.

Shauna commented that many people in the town had told her that Edenderry had lost one of its great characters. “That is what Babs was. He was a real character.”

“Babs was also a loyal and caring friend and he was always there when you needed him and always ready to crack a joke and have a laugh with all his pals. He loved his friends deeply and they loved him in return.”

She concluded the eulogy by reciting some song lyrics from Bruce Springsteen. “The road is long and seeming without end and the days go on and I’ll remember you my friend. And though you’re gone and my heart has been emptied it seems I’ll remember you in my dreams.

“Although my soul feels like it’s been split at the seams, I’ll see you again in my dreams. We love you Paul. Rest in Peace.”