Northern Ireland

Mourners at funeral of Co Down man heard he was a 'warm hearted person' and 'always ready to lend a hand'

Paul Corrigan died on October 6
Paul Corrigan died on October 6 Paul Corrigan died on October 6

MOURNERS at the funeral of a Co Down man who died after suffering a fall have heard how he was a "warm hearted person" who was "always ready to lend a hand".

Parish priest Fr John McAlinden also told yesterday of how Paul Corrigan (49) had made a "remarkable impact" during his life.

Originally from Newcastle, the father-of-two lived in Drogheda, where he was regarded as a "pillar of the community". He died in Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital on October 6, more than a week after he suffered a tragic fall in the Co Louth town.

Family and friends yesterday gathered at Our Lady of Lourdes Church where mourners heard that his death was a "shock that stops us in our tracks".

Fr McAlinden said Mr Corrigan, who worked as a joiner, was a "good man loved by adults and children alike".

He said he was "a pillar of the local community who was always available to help those who needed his help" adding that "first and foremost he was a family man".

"He lived his life for his partner Samantha and his children," he said.

The priest also said that Mr Corrigan "lived his life to the full" adding that he "brought joy and happiness to those who loved him".

"Paul radiated a gentle warmth and goodness where-ever he went," he said.

He added that "Paul's death brings home to everyone how tragic life is".

Following his death last week, Drogheda Town FC paid tribute to Mr Corrigan, whose son is the under 11 team goalkeeper, remembering how he was "always willing to help out...be it moving goalposts, doing linesman, he did it all".

"His constant encouragement to the team and his friendly chats before games was always welcome. His presence on the sideline will be great missed by players, coaches and parents," the club said in a post on Facebook.

Boyne Rovers FC also said Mr Corrigan was a "quiet and gentle soul who will be sorely missed by all", while Tredagh Lodge Drogheda Day Care Centre also remembered the support he had given at charity golf events.

Following his funeral, Mr Corrigan was laid to rest in Newtown Crossslawn Cemetery in Drogheda.