Éamonn Ryan is laid to rest: 'He was happiest in a field, helping and guiding others'

A sign in tribute to the late Éamonn Ryan outside Watergrasshill National School where he was formerly principal. Picture: John O'Connor via Twitter

The funeral mass of the great Éamonn Ryan took place this afternoon in the church of Naoimh Fionnbarra agus Rónán in his adopted home of Béal Átha’n Ghaorthaidh. The mass was presided over by his brother-in-law, Fr Aidan Vaughan, who was always struck by the “extraordinary respect Eamonn Ryan had for every human being.” 

The words of ‘You Raise Me Up’ echoed through the church at the beginning of the intimate service and there could not be a more fitting song for such a remarkable man who had such a positive influence on so many people throughout his wonderful life.