Hundreds of mourners turned up today for the funeral of one of Donegal’s most-loved characters Frankie Pat Gallagher.
Frankie Pat, from Mullaghduff in the Rosses, passed away suddenly after a long illness at Letterkenny General Hospital on Friday evening last.
Aged just 48, the huge turn-out at St Mary’s Church in Annagry was testament to the warmth and high regard in which Frankie Pat was held by the people of The Rosses and the whole of Donegal.
And of course it was only fitting that the funeral mass contained more than its fair share of laughter as Frankie would have wanted.
One prayer of the faithful even asked for help in guiding Celtic to the SPL and Naomh Mhuire to the Division Three League title!
Close friend Charlie The Yank Boyle delivered a touching eulogy which recalled the life and times of Frankie Pat from barman to footballer to fashion guru.
The Old Mullaghaduff Band formed a guard of honour as did the Rosses Celtic Supporters Club and Frankie’s own GAA club Naomh Mhuire.
His son Francis spoke on behalf of himself and his brother Ciaran when he said that Frankie was not just their dad but also their best friend.
Chief celebrant Fr Herritty spoke fondly of Frankie and said that although he could start a row with any set of supporters, he always left on a good note.
He expressed his condolences to Frankie Pat’s wife Catherine, his mother Kathleen and his brothers Pat, Denis and Jimmy.
Hundreds of people left the church to the haunting sound of You’ll Never Walk Alone – a favourite of Frankie Pat’s.
And he didn’t walked alone.
Under grey skies they accompanied Frankie Pat to his final rest place at the New Graveyard in Annagry.
Tricolours flew from many businesses and Celtic shirts and scarves hung from cars and windows in honour of one of their own.
Rest well Frankie Pat.
You have touched the hearts of more than most in your short time with us.
Walk on……..
Ends
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