26/08/2022
As we are gathered here today in celebration of uncle Séamus, I’d like us to remember each of our own individual relationship with him: to some, a priest, others a brother, some a friend and to his nieces and nephews, a caring uncle.
But although our relationships to Séamus may have differed, the one thing that remained that same was his warm and loving smile, that he greeted each of us with, and the way in which he treated everyone with kindness and respect.
As an uncle, Séamus was caring, inspiring and always showed a keen interest in keeping up to date with the lives of his nieces and nephews, no matter where in the world he may have been.
Although born in Tipperary, he became a devoted supporter to the cats. Alongside his love for the isle of Ireland, he very quickly fell in love with the beautiful city of Rome, the people there, and it’s culture. Séamus continuously kept in contact with us all when living away through a phone call or a postcard whenever he would find himself somewhere new.
During his holidays at home in Ireland each year, he was always more than happy to attend and get involved with any sacrament celebration of his nieces and nephews that may have been on.
Uncle Séamus never arrived empty handed, between jerseys, t-shirts, caps and of course the delicious chocolates, he had us all well kitted out.
The days we would visit Coolaghmore were always made brighter when we were greeted with Séamus’ beaming smile and welcoming wave as he waited for us at the back door. Although sometimes, we wondered if he was more excited to see us or for the jelly and ice cream after the dinner. We all know uncle Séamus had quite a sweet tooth.
Séamus was always interested in what was happening in our lives. Whether it be sports, hobbies or education, he always devoted time to listen to everything we had to tell him. Séamus had a keen interest in the wider world that was also adopted by us all.
Uncle Séamus had a great interest in sport. We share fond memories playing football with him in Granny’s back garden in Coolaghmore.
For some reason, the football was always played immediately after the dinner, but I’m sure he didn’t plan it that way to avoid the washing up.
It was always a very proud moment being out in public with Séamus, where we had opportunities to witness the mutual love and respect between our uncle and the people we met.
On behalf of the Freeman family we wish to thank all who prepared and participated in today’s liturgy. We thank bishop Denis, his fellow bishops and priests who con-celebrated Séamus’ requiem mass. A special thanks to reverend father Jacob, rector general of the Pallotines for his presence here today having travelled from Rome.
We would also like to extend our thanks to you all from the bottom of our hearts for all the support, kindness and love you have shown to uncle Séamus.
Your presence over the past three days is a testament to the love and respect we all shared for Séamus.
It truly warms our hearts to see so many of you here today to partake in the celebration of our dear uncle Séamus’ life.
There are just so many people that we need to thank, you all know who you are, and Séamus knows who you are.
So thank you for all that you have done throughout Séamus’ life. So to everyone and all that you have done, we say thank you.
Finally, uncle Séamus, beidh tú inár gcuid smaointe agus paidreacha inniu agus i gcónaí.
Go raibh míle maith agaibh.