Heartbreaking Farewell for Young Cork Girl Lost at Sea
The close-knit community of Carrigaline gathered to mourn the tragic loss of Emili Roman, who drowned off the Cork coast just two days before her eighth birthday. The emotional requiem mass was held at the Church of Our Lady and St. John, where children clutched teddy bears in a touching tribute to the young girl.
Emili’s Family and Friends Unite in Grief
Emili, from Crosshaven, was remembered by family, friends, and neighbours in a heartfelt ceremony. Her family had requested that those attending bring soft toys to the mass, which were later placed on her grave as symbols of the love and warmth she brought into their lives.
Her parents, Martha and Slawomir, walked alongside Emili’s white coffin, accompanied by her twin brother Jeremy and older sister Inga. A photo of Emili by the sea, smiling with her blonde hair catching the breeze, adorned the coffin — a nod to her love of the outdoors and the sea she adored.
Community and Clergy Pay Tribute to Beloved Emili
Parish priest Fr. Aidan Cremen spoke of the profound grief felt across Crosshaven, Fountainstown, Carrigaline, and beyond. He called the area a “beautiful piece of paradise” that held special meaning for Emili.
“Emili was always the centre of her family’s world. Though she’s gone, she will remain a loving presence, watching over them,” said Fr. Cremen.
He urged mourners to focus on the joyful memories of Emili’s sensitive and caring nature, reminding everyone of the community’s unity and support following the tragedy.
Guard of Honour Honors Emili’s Memory
Teenage pupils from Coláiste Muire Réalt Na Mara in Crosshaven formed a guard of honour as Emili’s coffin was brought into the church by her family and classmates from Templebreedy National School.
Representatives from An Garda Síochána, the Ambulance and Fire services, the RNLI, and Coastguard were among the mourners. Local politicians including Finance Minister Michael McGrath and Enterprise Minister Simon Coveney also attended to pay their respects.
The Catholic Bishop of Cork and Ross, Fintan Gavin, and Bishop Paul Colton of Cork, Cloyne and Ross, offered prayers on behalf of the community.
Emili was laid to rest at St. John’s Cemetery, Ballinrea, Co Cork, leaving behind a community united in grief and love for a vibrant young life cut tragically short.
