I remember funeral announcements from years ago – many of them concluded with the words “English and American Papers please copy” – it was, I suppose, the realisation that many of those known to the one who had died had emigrated and, the hope would be, that if the papers in England and America copied the announcment, the word would spread. This week, we published in our local press the “acknowledgement” that is traditional. It is a family’s way of thanking all who offered support around the time of a death. It strikes me that there are many reading this blog who will not see that notice and I’ve decided to say “PLEASE COPY” so that we may thank you too.
SHERLOCK, BILL Moygara, Gurteen, Co. Sligo.
Bill’s sons, Gerard, Kieran and Vincent, together with the Sherlock family wish to thank all who offered prayer and support in the days following his death. Thanks to our cousins and their families who spent so much time with us in the days prior to our father dying. Your support meant and means so much. Thanks to our neighbours and friends who spoke so lovingly of Bill and whose words brought much comfort. We are grateful to all who attended the wake in Moygara, the removal to St Jospeh’s Church, Cloonloo and the Funeral Mass. The presence of Bishops Kelly, Jones and Flynn, priests of Achonry Diocese and other priest friends meant a lot to us all. We thank the many female Religious from the diocese and beyond who attended the funeral. We appreciate the Mass Cards and messages sent by many unable to attend. Thanks to the Mass Servers. Thanks to Frs Joe Caulfield and Tomás Surlis for your pastoral care and presence in our home parish. The music and song provided by Christy O’Grady, together with Patrick Feeney, Jimmy Buckley and Fr James McDonagh enriched the Liturgy – for this, we thank you all. Big Tom’s farewell song in Templeronan Cemetery was very special and much appreciated. Thanks to those involved in the Motor Trade for your support and presence. In particular, we thank the staff members of the garage in Moygara who were always so kind to Bill. We are forever indebted to the staff of North West Hospice Sligo for the attentive and loving care afforded to our father, and indeed to all of us, during those final days. May God richly reward you, bless your work and be close to all currently in your care. Our lasting gratitude is also with the management and staff of Sligo General Hospital. The professionalism of Tommy Sharkey, Funeral Director, helped us through a difficult time. Thanks to all who prepared and filled the grave in Templeronan. We thank our aunts Eilish, Mary Margaret and Nora for being part of all our lives and lifelong friends to our father. We remember also our uncle Jimmy Sherlock, who died just one week after Bill and we pray that they are both at peace. Finally, let everyone who reads these lines, knowing the man we remember, be assured our family appreciates your prayers, kindness and support during Bill’s lifetime and following his death.
The Holy Sacrifice of the Mass has been offered for your intentions.
Bill’s Month’s Mind Mass will be celebrated in St Joseph’s Church, Cloonloo on Friday April 15th at 8.00pm