In a heartrending display of love and remembrance, Ronan Keating, the former Boyzone sensation, paid a soulful tribute to his departed brother, Ciaran Keating, during his funeral mass in Ireland. Emotions ran high as Ronan took to the pulpit and sang “This Is Your Song,” a poignant melody he composed after the passing of their beloved mother, Marie, in 1998.
With heartfelt lyrics that resonated with mourners, the chorus echoed through the church walls: “You were our friend, walk with you till the end, and one day we’ll all sing along, ’cause this is your song.” Ronan expressed the bittersweet sentiment of performing such a tribute in such somber circumstances, but he emphasized that it was his way of honoring his late brother’s memory.
Ronan Keating (second left) helps carry the coffin of his brother Ciaran Keating towards the church
As one of the pallbearers, Ronan stood strong alongside others, carrying Ciaran’s coffin to its final resting place at St. Patrick’s Church in Louisburgh, County Mayo. Among those gathered to pay their respects were relatives, friends, and esteemed figures like ex-Boyzone star Keith Duffy and former Ireland rugby player Shane Byrne, who came to offer their condolences.
Ciaran Keating, who was in his 50s, tragically lost his life in a car accident near Swinford in Co Mayo on a fateful Saturday, leaving his wife, Annemarie, injured. But in the face of sorrow, Ronan took solace in the knowledge that Ciaran’s children had made their father immensely proud.
The mourners’ grief was palpable as they walked behind the hearse, somberly processing through the streets of Louisburgh. Hugs and handshakes were exchanged, as friends and family shared stories and memories of the dearly departed.
Former Boyzone singer Keith Duffy was among the mourners
Notably present were members of Cork City FC, the football club where Ciaran Keating’s son Ruairi played, and representatives of the Marie Keating Foundation cancer charity. The foundation was established in memory of their mother, Marie Keating, who bravely battled breast cancer until her untimely passing in February 1998 at the age of 51.
Ronan Keating and wife Storm (right) outside the church after the funeral
As the community came together to bid farewell to Ciaran Keating, the essence of his life and legacy remained in their hearts, resonating through Ronan’s touching tribute. In a time of profound sadness, the power of music and the strength of family and friends served as a reminder of the enduring bonds that transcend time and space.
