'Fly high my angel' heartbreaking funeral of young mum in Laois

A young mother who died in her home in Laois last week, has been laid to rest this Monday, December 19, in a beautiful tribute to her short life.

The family of Sharon Crean spoke bravely to pay tribute to her positivity, her kind heart, and her love of her little son, Lorcan.

Her family also urge victims of domestic violence to seek help.

Heartbreakingly sad tributes were read out from her mother Catherine, her relatives, and one written on behalf of her two year old son.

"You gained your wings to become my very own guardian angel. Mammy I'll never forget the words you used to say to me, 'Lorkie boo, Mammy loves you'. Mammy I'll miss and love you forever. I promise I'll make you proud, your lovely baby boy Lorcan".

Her mother Catherine's words were read out by Sharon's sister.

"My heart is aching as I write this tribute instead of a Christmas card for you. You have been robbed of your life and taken from your beautiful son Lorcan and our family. You should be with us planning Christmas and watching your son open all his presents. 

"You have grown into an amazing beautiful kind hearted woman, I am so proud of you. You have always been so strong and independent and positive. I don't know what I am going to do without you but you will guide me and your family. Losing you has broken each and every one of us. You will live on in our hearts. Fly high my angel," Sharon's mother wrote.

Her family also thanked the ambulance and fire crews, and the neighbours who tried to save her life last Wednesday, December 14 when Sharon suffered a serious assault in her home.

"They also was to say to anybody suffering with domestic violence to come forward. there is help out there for everybody. Because this day can never happen to another woman again".

Portlaoise Parish Priest Monsignor John Byrne celebrated the Requiem Mass for Sharon Crean, with her love of country music reflected in the song choices of Garth Brooks, Donna Taggart and Julia Zahra.

He said that instead of all the build-up to Christmas, her family are in pain.

"This week Sharon's family are in pain, the pain of grief and loss. Left to contemplate the tragedy of her death. The violence, the senselessness of it all, the stupidity of it, resulting in the death of a young woman, a young mother, a daughter, a sister, a friend."

"Leaving a family in pain. A young boy, Lorcan, without his mother this Christmas and indeed, for his growing up. Yes, senseless," Msgr Byrne said.

The Parish Priest reiterated the call by Ms Crean's family for help to those suffering domestic violence.

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"Those are wise words to the victims of domestic violence. There are supports, there is help, please come forward. It reminds us as a community and a nation that we need to put better supports so they can come forward in safety and get the help they need."

Ms Crean was laid to rest afterwards in SS Peter and Paul's Cemetery in Portlaoise.