The Late Darren Murphy The closely-knit Ballinen community was plunged into a pall of gloom and heartbreak, last weekend, when news of the death of 21 years old Darren Murphy broke at tea time on Saturday evening. Darren and a number of his friends were climbing Carrauntwohill when the accident occurred. While descending the mountain, Darren fell and received fatal injuries. A spokesperson for the Kerry Mountain Rescue, which assisted in the recovery of the body, said that the extreme wind was most likely cause of the fall. This is the second tragedy to afflict the Murphy family as twelve years ago, Darren sister Karina,was killed in a car accident in Ballineen. Local people reacted with disbelief, shock and horror, as the full impact of the tragedy became known. The late Mr Murphy was a most popular figure locally and his tremendous wit and good humour endeared him to all who came in contact with him. Family friend, Michael Burgoyne spoke movingly at the Requiem Mass on Tuesday at the Church of the Immaculate Conception, Enniskeane of the young but full life of Darren. He was, stated Mr Burgoyne, "a genuine, charming and witty character, who was always in good form." No doubt, everyone here today has a story about Darren, as he lived life to the full and made countless friends in his short but eventful life. He will always be loved and remembered, never forgotten," concluded an emotional Mr Burgoyne. Earlier in his homily, Rev Fr Eddie Collins recalled the scene of loss suffered some twelve years ago by Darren, when he lost his young sister. "That loss was keenly felt and, again, the Murphy family and suffering, but the help and support of new friends and neighbours will assist them in their "valley of tears". Fr Collins continued by remembering Darren's day as an altar boy and his impish grin that endeared him to all. Darren, he said, "was a great altar boy, who spoke his mind in an honest and forthright manner and, when he needed an answer, he asked the question." Fr Collins concluded by asking for prayers for the bereaved family in their hour of need. As the Mass gifts reflecting Darren's life were borne to the altar by his great friend Aidan O'Donovan who brought a hurley, a St. Mary's jersey and a framed photography of the St. Mary's minor team of 1999 who had won county honours. James Godley, representing Riverside Athletic, brought a club jersey and a photograph of the Riverside under 16 team who had won the West Cork league cup in which Darren played a crucial role, scoring in both the semi-final and final. Michael Dineen of Dessie's Bar, carried a set of darts in memory of his team mate, while his aunt, Theresa, brought a selection of his favourite CDs. Despite the torrential downpour, the Parish Church was full to overflowing as Requiem Mass was celebrated. At the graveside, the choir sang Dublin in the Rare Auld Times, as a poignant reminder of Darren's love for this particular song. As his removal on Monday from the family home, hundreds thronged the streets to pay their respects, as several guards of honour flanked the coffin. It took the cortege almost an hour to make the one mile journey and, again, the church was full to capacity as dozens more prayed outside. This was a telling testament to the esteem in which Darren was held. Courtesy of the Southern Star 15th November 2003 Tweet

Most Read Stories