Tipperary Community Gathers to Honor 17-Year-Old Mia Keevan

The funeral of 17-year-old Mia Keevan took place on Saturday, August 30, 2023, at St Nicholas’ Church in Carrick-On-Suir, County Tipperary. Mia tragically passed away following a medical emergency at the Emerge dance music festival in Belfast the previous week. Family, friends, and community members gathered to pay their respects and celebrate Mia’s vibrant life.

Mourners were encouraged to wear bright and light-colored clothing as a tribute to Mia’s spirited personality. The service opened with the poignant song “Another Love” by Tom Odell, setting a heartfelt tone for the ceremony. Symbols of Mia’s life, including photographs, car keys, a vape, hair straighteners, and beauty products, were brought to the altar, reflecting her passions and interests.

Emotional Eulogy Celebrates Mia’s Unique Spirit

A touching eulogy was delivered by Mia’s older sister, Kyah Keevan, who expressed gratitude for the support from the Carrick-On-Suir community. “We would like to thank everyone for everything you have done for us over the past week,” Kyah said. She highlighted the overwhelming compassion shown through food, flowers, and donations during this difficult time.

Kyah described her sister as “feisty, loving and full of life,” capturing Mia’s essence with warmth and sincerity. “She could eat you without salt and tell you exactly what she thought, whether you wanted to hear it or not,” Kyah recalled. “That honesty was part of her charm. She was real, unique, and that’s what made her so special.”

Mia’s ability to bring laughter and joy to those around her was emphasized in Kyah’s reflections. She noted, “You couldn’t stay mad at her for long,” a testament to Mia’s infectious spirit. Kyah remembered Mia’s desire to pursue her dreams, including plans to visit Australia and the recent excitement surrounding her first car, which she cherished despite her novice driving skills.

Community Support and Lasting Impact

Mia’s family, including her mother Debbie, sisters Jade and Sophia, and her boyfriend Jack, mourn her loss deeply. Kyah acknowledged the strength of familial bonds, stating, “We all fought, as families do. But the thing about her was she never held a grudge.” This sentiment highlighted Mia’s capacity for forgiveness and unwavering loyalty to her friends and loved ones.

The loss of Mia has left a profound impact on her community. Kyah remarked, “What happened to her was tragic, and there are no words that can make sense of it.” Yet, she reassured those present that Mia’s spirit would endure. “She lived her life boldly and made an impact on everyone who knew her. Rest easy, Mia; you will always be with us.”

Mia Keevan is mourned not only by her immediate family but also by close friends such as Ella, Jayden, and Keeley. The funeral served as a poignant reminder of the connections that bind communities together in times of sorrow, illustrating the love and support that can flourish even in the face of tragedy.