Matthew Healy - one year on: family's touching tribute on Waterford school boy's first anniversary
The late Matthew Healy, 2017-2024.
The family of Matthew Healy have released a touching tribute to mark the one-year anniversary of the little boy's death.
Matthew was a Senior Infant pupil at Faithlegg National School and lived between Williamstown, Waterford, and Watergrasshill, Co Cork.
The six-year-old boy passed away on February 9, 2024 in County Waterford.
In a post on rip.ie, Matthew's family thanked everyone who helped them throughout their grief and pain.
They wrote: "As we lovingly remember Matthew at this time, we would like to sincerely thank everyone who sympathized with us, attended the Funeral, sent Mass cards, posted on rip.ie, our neighbours, friends and to all who travelled long distances to be with us to share in our grief.
"We would also like to especially mention the hundreds of condolences received from those who are unknown to us personally, both nationally and internationally; this outpouring of support was heartwarming at such a difficult time."
The family thanked Faithlegg National School and the community of Waterford for holding vigils in honour of Matthew.
They also personally thanked the first responders, Gardaí and medical professionals who helped: "We are deeply indebted to all the emergency personnel, first responders, Gardaí and staff at University Hospital Waterford who worked tirelessly to try and save Matthew’s life."
Matthew was laid to rest at the Church of the Immaculate Conception in Watergrasshill, which was celebrated by Father Christopher Fitzgerald and Father Liam Power.
The family stated: "A sincere word of thanks to Fr. Christy, who concelebrated Matthew’s funeral mass with Fr. Liam Power from Waterford, with the support from staff in Watergrasshill Parish and the choir; your support and guidance to help us through this difficult time has been very much appreciated.
"A sincere thank you to the owners and staff at The Island Crematorium, Ringaskiddy, who went above and beyond to make it a most special goodbye to our little man."
The family finally thanked the community of Watergrasshill for their love and support throughout the difficult time.
"We are deeply indebted to the community of Watergrasshill; the support shown to us during Matthew’s funeral and since, has been the greatest display of humanity from a community; it is heartwarming to witness. From everyone who helped out in the house, controlled traffic and parking, provided food, and organised elements of the funeral, we thank you from the bottom of our hearts and we could not have managed without you." Matthew's anniversary Mass will be held at the Church of the Immaculate Conception on Saturday, February 9, at 11.30am.
