Funeral of man killed in Cork crash to take place in his native India

Joice Thomas was killed when his car crashed into the River Bride between Aghern and Conna.

The funeral of a man killed in a Cork crash before Christmas will take place in his native India on Tuesday.

The remains of 34-year-old Joice Thomas, who lived in Ballynoe, were repatriated from Dublin on Sunday.

The father of two lived with his wife Ruth and their two-year-old daughter and four-month-old son.

He was killed when his car crashed into the River Bride between Aghern and Conna, shortly after he had left work in Ballincurrig care centre on Friday, December 19.

He had moved to Ireland from India last year.

His family and friends spent hours searching for him overnight before his car was found in the River Bride at around 10am the following morning.

A fundraising campaign set up to cover the costs of repatriation of the 34-year-old's remains to India, as well as his funeral and future costs for the family, raised over €103,000.

His funeral will take place in his native Kambammettu region of India on Tuesday, in the presence of family and friends.

A Christmas and New Year celebration planned by members of the Indian community in Fermoy for January 2 in Conna community hall has now been cancelled as a mark of respect.

On the Fermoy Indians Facebook page, the group said their hearts were “full of gratitude”.

It said: “Joice was not just a friend or a neighbour to us; he shared a deep bond of brotherhood with us. Though nothing can ever replace his presence, we take this opportunity to express our sincere thanks to all the kind-hearted people who stood by us during this difficult time.” 

The statement said that “words are not enough to thank the Irish community, especially the people of Ballynoe, Conna and Fermoy”.

“You stood beside us, held our hands, and embraced us during our darkest moments. Your kindness and support will remain in our hearts forever. You built a strong fortress around us and made us feel like we were your own family. 

"We write this with tears in our eyes, knowing we will never forget what you have done for us.”