Hundreds gather to pay their respects as murdered Paddy (90) begins his final journey
A community gathered in silence last night to honour a 90-year-old farmer whose death shocked the country.
Hundreds gathered for the removal of Paddy Lyons (90) from Lismore, Co Waterford, to St Mary's Church, Ballysaggart, where he had worshipped for many years.
Friends, neighbours and relatives vowed he would be given "a dignified" funeral.
Shortly after 1pm, mourners gathered at St Carthage's Mortuary in Lismore to pay their last respects.
Mr Lyons was discovered dead at his Loughleagh home outside Ballysaggart, 10km from Lismore, two weeks ago.
Suspicious
A murder investigation was launched after a post-mortem at University Hospital Waterford by assistant state pathologist Dr Margaret Bolster.
The examination was ordered by gardai who were suspicious of marks on the face and head of Mr Lyons.
The pensioner was discovered slumped in a chair at his farmhouse home after locals became concerned when he did not attend a funeral in the village.
Mr Lyons' own funeral was delayed to allow distant relatives to attend from overseas, including the US.
Shortly before 6pm yesterday, Mr Lyons' body was carried from St Carthage's Mortuary and brought by funeral cortege to St Mary's Church.
Mr Lyons will be buried after 11am Requiem Mass today in a plot beside family members.
Funeral tributes will be paid by Ballysaggart community groups including the GAA, community alert, musical society and IFA.
The only child of John and Nora Lyons, Mr Lyons never married and lived alone at the 30-acre family homestead.
Ross Outram (26), of Ferryland, Waterford Road, Clonmel, Co Tipperary, was last week charged with the murder of Mr Lyons at Dungarvan District Court.
He was remanded in custody and will reappear before the court on Wednesday.