Elliot English, the little boy who was critically injured in a fire that claimed the lives of his mum, dad and two brothers, was laid to rest alongside his parents and siblings on Friday, as a deeply poignant Month’s Mind Mass also remembered the four family members who died in last month’s devastating fire.
Waterford came together on Friday to say a final goodbye to six-year-old Elliot English, whose funeral marked another heartbreaking chapter in the tragedy that has devastated his family and the wider community.
Mourners gathered at the Sacred Heart Church on The Folly for the Requiem Mass, which was held alongside the Month’s Mind service for Elliot’s parents, Kim and Philip, and his older brothers, Callum, 12, and Jayden, nine.
The family had already suffered the loss of four members following a fire at their home in the Birchwood estate on October 13.
Elliot, who was critically injured in the blaze, spent almost a month receiving treatment at Children’s Health Ireland in Crumlin before sadly passing away on November 6.
(Top L to R): Philip English, Elliot English, Kim English, Jayden English, and Callum English.
Elliot's funeral on Friday brought together two very significant moments of remembrance, as loved ones gathered to honor the little boy while also remembering the parents and brothers he had lost.
Touching tributes to Elliot filled the service, with mourners wearing bright colors in keeping with the family’s wishes. Paw Patrol T-shirts and decorations were also featured, reflecting the young boy’s love of the popular children’s characters.
A guard of honor from Elliot’s school, Scoil Lorcáin, lined the street outside the church, alongside those paying their respects.
His aunt Jackie delivered an emotional tribute, remembering a little boy whose personality and laughter had left a lasting impression on those around him.
She recalled the special memories they shared, including their playful burping games, and said his infectious laughter could brighten even the darkest of days.
She also paid tribute to the bond between Elliot and his 14-year-old sister, who was with him during his final moments and continues to receive hospital treatment following the fire.
Addressing the teenager during the Mass, Fr. Gerry Chestnutt praised her strength and acknowledged the enormous challenges she continues to face, assuring her that she remained very much in the thoughts of everyone gathered.
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Elliot’s aunt also spoke of the family’s hope that he was now reunited with his mother, father and brothers, free from the pain and suffering he endured.
Following the Mass, Elliot was laid to rest in Kilbarry Cemetery, alongside Kim, Philip, Callum and Jayden.
The service marked the fifth funeral for the English family following the October tragedy, with today’s Month’s Mind Mass making it an especially emotional occasion for relatives and friends.
The loss has been deeply felt throughout Waterford and beyond, with an outpouring of support for the family in the weeks since the fire.
*This article was originally published on Extra.ie.
