'No words can truly reflect how we all feel' - O'Connor family funeral takes place in Louth

The funeral of Mark (54), Louise (56), and Evan O’Connor (27) took place this morning at St Patrick’s Church, Dundalk, with family, friends, and members of the community gathering to pay their respects. 

Father Gerry Campbell, Parish Priest and Vicar Forane, led the service, joined by Fathers Mark O’Hagan, Stephen Wilson, Sijo John, and Pat McEnroe. In his homily, Father Campbell reflected on the lives of Mark, Louise, and Evan, highlighting their devotion to family, community, and the causes close to their hearts.

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Mark O’Connor was remembered as a dedicated advocate for people with disabilities and a cherished member of the North East Runners Dundalk. Father Campbell described him as a man of quiet integrity who “ran life’s race with courage and faith,” citing his efforts with Inclusion Ireland and the ABACAS School as examples of his commitment to helping others.

Louise O’Connor, a lifelong nurse and community volunteer, was praised for her warmth, musical talents, and devotion to her family. “She showed us the face of Christ the Healer,” Father Campbell said, recalling her laughter, kindness, and commitment to those around her.

North East Runners providng a guard of honour at the O’Connor family funeral. Pics: Arthur Kinahan

Evan, the couple’s youngest son, was remembered for his infectious joy and love of life. From his colourful odd socks to his enthusiasm for holidays, swimming, and time spent at the Praxis Hub in Drogheda.

Personal gifts were also presented during the service, reflecting the passions of each of the O’Connors: Mark’s running medals and books, Louise’s choir music and a cat collar, and Evan’s holiday photo book, swimming cap, odd socks, and model train.

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In his homily Father Gerry Campbell spoke of the outpouring of love for the O’Connor and Doherty families,

“If you look at website rip.ie, you will find nearly thirty pages of condolences —that is unprecedented: all from people who worked with Mark and Louise, from runners, from the Abacas school and the Hub Praxis in Drogheda and from people who, while they may have never met them at all, felt so moved by their story that they reached out. 

“When we look at their family, their son and brother Cian who has been exceptionally strong throughout these last days and your very supportive fiancée Shauna.  When we think about Sadie, Bernadette and Ann.  When we look at: Marcus, Majella, Deirdre and Antoinette as well as Chris, Anita, Caroline, Ruth and Mary.  You have been exceptional throughout this long goodbye.

“And to hear your love and compassion for Robert in the midst of this heartbreak is a powerful Christian witness to us all.  We add our prayers to yours — that the Lord, who said “Come to me, and I will give you rest,” will surround Robert with His strength, His peace, and His healing presence.

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“But perhaps, as we gather here today, there are families across this country quietly wondering, “How close are we to something like this happening in our own home?” Given that Mark devoted his life to advocating for the disability sector and for those in need, it would be remiss of me not to echo his spirit and appeal for greater care, compassion, and resources for mental health in our nation.  We cannot bring them back — but we can honour them by ensuring that no other family has to walk this road alone.”

Cian O’Connor, son of Mark and Louise and brother of Evan, delivered a moving eulogy celebrating the lives of his family.

"No words can truly reflect how we all feel," he said.

He spoke of his father’s dedication to his family and community, including his support for Evan and finding camaraderie with North East Runners Dundalk.

He remembered Evan as a joyful presence whose smile lit up every room and praised his mother Louise for her warmth, charity work, and excitement for Cian’s upcoming wedding. He also spoke of the enduring love, patience, and kindness of the three and the rich, meaningful lives they led.

The funeral ended with a recording of Louise singing Moonriver played in the church. 

Family members requested that attendees wear odd socks in memory of Evan’s individualistic spirit and asked that donations in lieu of flowers be made to The Hub Praxis in Drogheda and the ABACAS School.