Seán’s ‘big smile’ won him many friends, funeral service told

MOURNERS gathered at St Davog’s Catholic Church in Dromore on Saturday to celebrate the life of Seán O’Donnell, a well-known local man with a love for rallying and machinery, who passed away on April 30 at the age of 37 following a short illness.

During the funeral service, led by Very Rev Denis Dolan PE, Seán was remembered as someone who ‘touched the lives of many’.

“The death of a young person makes us reflect on the fragility and uncertainty of life,” Fr Dolan told the congregation.

“We never quite know what tomorrow will bring. At 37, one is in the prime of life, with many years to look forward to, but for Seán, it was not to be.

“His untimely death has left his family and friends heartbroken. But in his 37 years, he packed in a lot of living.”

Seán grew up in Dromore and attended Drumlish Primary School, later moving on to CBS Omagh and South West College.

He began working young, helping out on a neighbouring farm, and would later take his skills around the world, working in England, Poland and Australia.

“Séan has touched the lives of many,” continued Rev Dolan.

“His friendly disposition, his gentleness and his big smile won him many friends.

“His illness lasted less than a year, but he certainly fought the good fight, finished the race and kept the faith.”

Séan’s employers Longhill Plant Services remembered him fondly as someone ‘held in the highest esteem’.

“Everyone who knew or met ‘Tubs’, as he was affectionately known, will remember him for his laughter, stories and love of all things plant, machinery, lorry and rally related,” they said.

Seán also came from a prominent GAA family, and Dromore St Dympna’s postponed all club activities until after his funeral on Saturday.

Seán is survived by his parents Gabriel and Katherine, his brothers Brian (Laura) and Aodhán (Clodagh), and his nieces and nephews Ciarán, Beauden, Francis, Éacha, Grace and Zara.

He will be remembered with love and affection by all who knew him.