Two families were united in grief yesterday at the funeral of eight-year-old Robert Costello, who was killed at his home in Mullinavat, Co Kilkenny, last Saturday.
A packed St Paul's Church in Lisduggan, Waterford, was told that Robert's stay on Earth was far too short, but he would live on in the hearts and minds of relatives and friends.
Robert's mother, Ms Jacqueline Costello, was charged on Sunday with his murder. Members of her family shared the front pews of the church with his father, Mr Stephen O'Keeffe, and other members of the O'Keeffe family.
The chief celebrant, Father Paul Waldron, said it was a credit to the families that they were so united. "You have shown great understanding and compassion for each other. You are assisting each other through this nightmare situation," he said.
Father Waldron reminded the congregation that only a few months ago many had gathered around the same altar to see Robert and his classmates celebrate their First Communion. "It seems to make no sense that we are gathered here this morning for his funeral."
The Costellos had moved to Mullinavat last month and had previously lived at Woodlawn Grove in Waterford city.
There were emotional scenes as former classmates of Robert's brought up the Offertory gifts, which included a Manchester United jersey, a football, a hurley and a sliothar, and again as his father and other relatives carried the small white coffin from the church. From there it was taken for burial at St Otteran's Cemetery.
