MOURNERS at the funeral of a 12-year-old boy who died after being hit by a van in Co Antrim have heard how he "brought happiness, goodness and love into the lives of others".
Fr Kevin McGuckien paid tribute to Aaron Webb from Stoneyford, describing him as a "wonderful, energetic, loving and determined boy who lived life to the full with courage and love".
A year 8 pupil at St Patrick's Academy in Lisburn, he died in hospital on Friday following the accident near Glenavy.
During the Requiem Mass at St Joseph's Church, Glenavy, the priest said "all who knew and loved Aaron have had their hearts under a pall of darkness since the news of his tragic death filtered through the community".
But he told the young boy's devastated parents Brian and Laura that "Aaron left this world knowing how proud you were of him".
"Indeed the last words exchanged between Laura and Aaron as he prepared to step onto the school bus on Friday morning were 'I love you'," he said.
"Laura and Brian, your love for Aaron was evident to everyone - he was smothered in love for those 12 precious years, indeed it was only on Wednesday that he celebrated his 12th birthday.
"You have many precious memories of Aaron which you will frequently recall - they are wonderful memories of Aaron who was always happy, cheerful and indeed at times mischievous.
"Aaron's certainly grew up in a very caring and loving home.
"Laura and Brian, as parents you were always protective of Aaron - that is why the tragedy that claimed Aaron's young life on Friday afternoon is so so difficult to comprehend.
"Aaron generated so much laughter and in the lives of his family and all those with whom he came in contact. Aaron a very sociable lad who loved those occasions that brought the family together as he greatly appreciated their company."
The priest said Aaron had started St Patrick's Academy in September and "loved his new school where he got involved in all aspects of school life and was very much liked by all his classmates".
He said the young boy aspired to be a basketball player or a YouTuber, but his "dreams always included you his family for you were so important to him".
"Aaron in short life has touched the lives of many people all those who were fortunate enough to have met him - his infectious smile and generous spirit certainly won the hearts of so many people," he said.
"We can be certain, brothers and sisters, that Aaron will never be forgotten....for he certainly was a ray of sunshine in the life of his family, friends, fellow students and staff and everyone in the community who knew him."
Following the service, Aaron was laid to rest in the adjoining cemetery.
