‘She Was an Excellent, Beautiful Mother’ Heartfelt Tributes at Funeral for Cork Woman Found Fatally Injured
Mourners gathered in Roundwood, Co Wicklow, on Wednesday to honor Daena Walsh, a 27-year-old mother of two who was found fatally injured in a burning building in Cork. Daena’s brother, Callum, delivered a poignant tribute during her funeral, describing her as “a wonderful sister, daughter, and most of all she was an excellent, beautiful mother to her two boys Ezra and Kryson whom she adored greatly.”
Daena, formerly of Vartry Heights in Roundwood, was discovered with stab wounds at her home in Midleton, Cork, last Friday, August 2. Despite the swift response from emergency services, she was pronounced dead at the scene shortly after 4 p.m. Her partner, Adam Corcoran, 29, has been charged with her murder and remains in custody awaiting a court appearance.
The funeral service, held at St Laurence O’Toole’s Church, Roundwood, drew hundreds of mourners, including Daena’s sons Ezra and Kryson, her mother Caroline, and her brothers Paul, Robbie, Callum, and Noah. Other attendees included her uncle Jason and Lynnette, cousins Marc, Aaron, Mick, and Phyliss Walsh, as well as other family members and friends.
Fr. John Greene, the chief celebrant, addressed the gathering with heartfelt words: “As we gather in great sadness and pray for Daena, giving thanks to God for her love and kindness to her family and to her friends,” he said. He reflected on the tragedy of her death, noting, “As we think of all that has happened to Daena and her loss of life, the loss of a daughter, a sister, a mother, and a granddaughter as well, it’s something that shouldn’t have happened. And no one should suffer like this, no-one should die so tragically as she did.”
In his emotional eulogy, Callum Walsh spoke of his sister’s vibrant personality. “Daena was well known for her iconic hair color and mad lipstick,” he recalled. “Even though she could be cheeky at times, she will always be our cheeky sister and that will be forever cherished in our hearts.” Callum described her as “so down to earth and would help anyone with anything, if she was in a good mood,” and expressed gratitude for the support from those who attended the funeral. “Daena, we will miss you forever,” he added.
Symbols of Daena’s life, including her favorite perfume, gel nails, lipstick, a teddy bear, and a can of Red Bull, were placed at the altar. During the communion procession, the song “The Prayer” by Charlotte Church and Josh Groban was performed, with the lines: “Lead us to a place, Guide us with your grace, To a place where we’ll be safe.”
As Daena’s remains were carried out of the church, four white doves were released above her coffin during the hymn “Be Not Afraid,” followed by a round of applause from the mourners.