'A golden heart has stopped beating'

Elizabeth and Martin Corcoran and their three-year-old daughter Isabelle were joined by friends and family as they gathered for the funeral of five-month-old baby Martin at St Michael’s Church in Ballinasloe.

The heartbroken parents broke down as they read a tribute to their little boy, describing him as their little man who was now an angel.

Mum Elizabeth received applause from the congregation as she read a poem for her baby boy.

“God saw you baby Martin getting tired, and a cure not to be, so he wrapped his arms around you and whispered "come to me"  with tearful eyes as we watched and saw you pass away. And although we love you dearly couldn’t  make you stay.

“A golden heart stopped beating when H gave you rest. God's garden must be beautiful. He only takes the best.

“Rest In Peace our Angel, rest in peace our little man. We love you so much, love,” she added.

A tiny Arsenal kit and a Mickey Mouse balloon were placed on the little coffin during the ceremony.

Prayers were said  for all families who had lost a child with special prayers for Martin, Elizabeth and Isabelle.

Relatives asked God to “soothe the hearts of his mummy and daddy and sister Isabelle. Give them hope in their hearts and be close to them.”

The little boy died after the family car was involved in a crash on the N6 Athlone by-pass on Sunday. His sister Isabelle was injured in the accident. Baby Martin was buried at Creagh Cemetery following the funeral mass.