Stab victim ‘had a smile for everyone’

A STONEMASON stabbed to death in Cork city was yesterday remembered at his requiem mass as having been a cheerful, outgoing person who had a love of travel and cooking.

Edward Gallagher, 27, died at Cork University Hospital on February 15 after he was stabbed in Friar’s Walk on the southside of Cork city.

A man has appeared before the courts in connection with his death.

Yesterday, at 11am Mass at St Mary’s on the Hill Church in Knocknaheeny, chief celebrant Fr George O’Mahony said the late Mr Gallagher’s “cruel” passing had devastated his friends and relatives.

“Edward, I did not expect to be standing here today with you lying still there in front of me. I am sure it was the last thought on his mother’s heart or mind 10 days ago and his sisters and brothers’ mind. For Edward [death] came very suddenly, very unexpectedly and very violently and that adds to the sadness of someone so young dying. We come unexpectedly and with broken hearts to pray for Edward.”

Fr O’Mahony, who concelebrated the mass with six other priests, said Mr Gallagher was someone who had “a smile and a few words” for everyone he met. He spoke of recently meeting an acquaintance of Edward’s who mentioned the kindness he extended to her when her father passed away suddenly last year.

Offertory gifts included an image of Africa symbolising Edward’s love of travel, a CD by Neil Diamond, cooking utensils denoting his fondness for baking and a ship representing his talent at metal work.

Mr Gallagher was a stone mason by trade. For a period in his life, he played hurling and football with St Vincent’s GAA club on the northside of Cork city.

He is survived by his mother Mary, sisters Marie and Sarah and brothers David, Paul and Kevin. He was laid to rest yesterday at St Catherine’s Cemetery in Kilcully, Cork.

Meanwhile, a 27-year-old man was arrested in connection with his death and charged last Friday with assault causing harm and with the production of a knife. Alan Field from the Gurranabraher area of Cork is due before Cork District Court again tomorrow.

A second man was arrested in connection with the death but he was released without charge on Saturday.

A file will be prepared for the DPP.