‘We will love you forever’ – Brothers’ heartbreaking vow for Shay Duffy as he’s laid to rest after Louth crash tragedy

The pals died after their VW Golf was involved in a collision with a Toyota Land Cruiser
THE heartbroken brothers of Shay Duffy emotionally said “we will love you forever” as he was laid to rest today.

The 21-year-old was remembered for his “great character” after his life was tragically cut short along with his four friends in a crash in Co Louth last week.

Five youngsters, all under 25, lost their lives in the road tragedy last Saturday, with the other casualties being Chloe McGee, 23, of Carrickmacross, Co Monaghan, Alan McCluskey, 23,  from Drumconrath, Co Meath, Dylan Commins, 23, from Ardee, Co Louth, and Chloe Hipson, 21, from Lanarkshire in Scotland.

The pals died after their VW Golf was involved in a collision with a Toyota Land Cruiser on a stretch of road near Dundalk, Co Louth, last Saturday night.

President Catherine Connolly joined mourners to remember the 21-year-old at St Patrick’s Church, Rockchapel, Co Monaghan.

Shay’s siblings told the church how Shay was “the best brother”.

His brother said: “I will miss not seeing you but I know you will be watching over us.

“Thank you for everything you did for us, especially getting us sweets and jerseys. We will love you forever.”

His other brother shared: “Shay is loved by everyone. He treated his friends like family. He even treated his cars like his kids.

“Shay, you now live on in our hearts forever. Forever 21. You are the best brother ever.”

Father Ben Hughes remembered Shay for his “great character”, who was “warmly remembered and deeply loved”.

He said the 21-year-old showed goodwill, laughter and kindness reflecting the values of God.

Father Hughes said: “At the young age of 21, Shay has lived a very full and impactful life.  

“Shay is warmly remembered and deeply loved by many and in particular by his dedicated parents Carmel, Raymond and his brothers Vinny and Ben.

“As we prayerfully celebrate and reflect on Shay’s life, we know that after completing his schooldays in Scoil Bhríde and in the Patrician High School, Shay undertook an apprenticeship in plumbing completing his studies in Technological University of the Shannon in Athlone, and in Dundalk Institute of Technology.

“Shay successfully completed his training in practical skills and theoretical knowledge qualifying him to work to the highest standard in this trade.

“As well as completing his RGI qualification, all of which happened under the loving supervision of his own father Raymond and the encouragement of his mother Carmel. Truly a sacred story with Biblical sentiment.”

Symbols representing Shay’s life were brought to the altar including a family photo, a photo of Shay and his girlfriend Zara, work trousers, a photo of his cars, brown boots, watch, phone and aftershave and a photo of his late Grandads.

Father Hughes continued: “Furthermore, Shay was a genius in the restoration of cars and tractors … this was his pride and joy … Apart of course from the RM Williams Belt and the Boots which he stylishly wore.

“In addition to Shay’s professional qualifications, Shay was an initiator who was project driven, always on the go, confident and a problem solver.  

“What fine gifts … gifts that allowed Shay to make a contribution both here in this very church, in school and elsewhere.”