THERE were heartbreaking scenes yesterday afternoon when the funeral took place of tragic drowning victim Elaine Morrow.
The 23 year old Ballintra woman died when a diving trip went horribly wrong in Australia three weeks ago.
More than 1,000 mourners turned up at the funeral service which took place at Drumholm Church of Ireland Parish Church in Ballintra.
Leading the mourners was Elaine’s parents Jimmy and Margaret and her two younger sisters Kathryn, 19 and Tanya, 15.
Kathryn thanked Elaine for being the best big sister ever even though sometimes she may not always have listened.
And she promised to look after her parents and little sister Tanya.
Tearful Tanya broke down as she tried to read a poem to her dead sister.
Reverend Brian Russell said a multitude of people beyond Donegal had been touched by Elaine’s kindess and gentle nature and they will miss her also.
Members of Elaine’s family all wore something purple for the sorrowful occasion in memory of the former biology graduate.
The Order of Service contained a picture of Elaine in happier times – clutching a large sunflower and smiling.
Elaine’s was given a guard of honour at her funeral service by pupils from her former secondary school Colaiste Colmcille in Ballyshannon.
Meanwhile two investigations are being carried out into the circumstances surrounding the young Donegal woman’s death.
The details of a post mortem into Elaine’s death have still not been released.
Local county councillor Phonsie Travers said people in the area have rallied to the family in their time of need.
“The Morrow family are decent, hard-working people and they didn’t deserve this. Everyone is still is shock.
“The amount of people who have been calling to the family home in recent weeks since Elaine’s death has been unbelievable.
“It will be difficult for the family, for Elaine’s parents Jimmy and Margaret and her two sisters in the coming weeks but the community will be here for them,” he said.
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