Victim of Tullamore crash remembered as someone who “brought love and joy” to people

By Rebekah O'Reilly

At her funeral mass today (Wednesday), Ballinagar woman Melissa Brewer was remembered as a “mammy-like figure” who brought “life, love and joy to people”.

The Offaly woman, aged in her 40s, was one of two van drivers who were both tragically killed in a collision at Cappincur, Tullamore, last Friday afternoon (November 6). The other victim was a man in his 50s.

Family and friends, along with members of the wider community gathered at the Church of the Assumption, Tullamore, this morning to bid a fond farewell to Melissa Brewer.

The funeral Mass was celebrated by Fr Fergal Cummins, who was joined by concelebrants Fr John Stapleton of Killeigh and Fr Michael Whittaker of Rahan.

At the beginning of the Mass, a number of symbols reflecting Melissa's life, personality and the people and things she cherished were brought forward.

Among the treasured items were a receipt from her first date with her beloved husband, TJ, a photograph of Melissa with her late sister Elaine, a family photograph and the lead belonging to her loyal family dog, Snowy.

In his homily, Fr Cummins spoke warmly of Melissa's generosity, enthusiasm and the love she had for those around her, describing her as a woman who was deeply devoted to her family and who took on a “mammy-like” role to many people in her life.

He said Melissa loved all her family and was someone who brought great life, love and joy to those fortunate enough to know her.

“She will be remembered for taking pictures and having fun,” he said, highlighting her generous and people-oriented nature and the happiness she brought to others.

Music was another important part of Melissa's life. A drummer in a band, she enjoyed a wide variety of music. Her commitment to helping others was also evident through her volunteering with the Order of Malta

“She was very generous and people-orientated. She brought a lot of life, love and joy to people,” said Fr Cummins.

Her devotion to her husband TJ, and her children Harry and Molly, was a defining part of her life.

Fr Cummins also remembered the special place Melissa held in the lives of her late sister Elaine's children.

“She stepped up to take care of Elaine's children, whom she loved as if they were her own,” the priest said.

Melissa was remembered as an “amazing auntie” and a “loyal friend”, with the celebrant reflecting on the many roles she fulfilled throughout a life which she lived with a “smile, love, and enthusiasm”.

“She wore so many different hats,” he said, noting that her life had been centred on other people.

The tributes painted a picture of a much-loved woman whose kindness, warmth and infectious personality touched countless lives.

Her sudden passing has left an enormous void in the lives of her family and many friends.

The ceremony included an emotional rendition of the Christina Perri song 'A Thousand Years'.

In a post-Communion reflection, family member Aoife recited a poem which read: “When tomorrow starts without me, don't think we're far apart, for everytime you think of me, I'm right here in your heart.”

Melissa is predeceased by her much-loved sister Elaine, mother-in-law Teresa, aunts Ber and Christine, uncle Sean and grandparents May and Jimmy Owens and Roseanne and Mick Halloran.

She will be sadly missed and lovingly remembered by her devoted husband and best friend TJ, cherished children Harry and Molly, heartbroken parents John and Imelda, and brother Jason.

Her passing is also deeply regretted by her sisters-in-law Sandra, Katrina and Amanda, brothers-in-law Derek, Jason, Kevin, James and Alan, father-in-law Thomas, aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, nephews, relatives, neighbours and her many friends, as well as her faithful dog Snowy.

Following the funeral Mass, Melissa was laid to rest in Clonminch Cemetery, Tullamore.

May she rest in peace.