In life each one of us can have an influence on the lives of other people, just as Christ had an influence on each of us. Because of Christ’s influence, we belong to him whether alive or dead. Scripture reminds us that the time comes for our departure. In Tony's case he fought the good fight, finished the race and kept the faith. We are reminded by Saint Paul of Christ’s death and resurrection and his gaining salvation for each one of us. He stands at God’s right hand and pleads our cause.

Our Father’sGospel story is that beautifully consoling passage from St. John reminding us that there are many rooms in our Father’s house. We are welcome. There is an open invitation to come follow him. We are reminded of Christ's own words, “I have called you by name, you are mine’. He accepts us as we are, provided we acknowledge that Christ is the way, the truth and the life.

When a person lives there is a story to be told. In fact each of us has a unique story to tell, the story of his or her life.

Tony was born on 23rd of June 1963, the year of the big snow to his parents Robert and Brigid McCavana. He was the 10th of 13 children. 

Tony loved to sing and dance. He was the life and soul of the party even after he gave up the Guinness. 

Tony was very handy with wood work, making things like a cabin bed shop and chairs. However, everyone knew not to leave their animals with him, especially hamsters. They could possibly be found up a hoover hose. 

Every morning, Tony asked God for a good day and took comfort in his faith.

Although Tony never married or had children he was devoted to his family. From a young boy to his final day he was a kind and gentle soul. We can all agree, Tony had his own special connection with everyone here today. 

Today then we bid farewell to Tony. Despite your sense of loss, you will face the future with courage and hope, knowing that that is what Tony would want you to do. We comfort one another in the sure confidence that for Tony life has changed not ended. We also derive comfort from the conviction that he is at peace with God after all his suffering. It is only to God we can turn at this time to try to find some meaning, some consolation, some hope in the situation we find ourselves in. Prayer will bring us through this time. All of us gathered here today we just want to say how sorry we are for your great loss.

We extend our sympathy today to Tony’s family, Sheila, Bobby, Peter, Brigid, Nora, Sean, Geraldine, Christine, Christopher, and Jennifer, nephews and nieces here and in England.

You are all in our prayers and we extend to you our deepest sympathy. May he rest in peace. Amen.