The priest at the funeral of Anthony Foley says it's fitting to celebrate with dignity, the life and achievements of a man who lived life with great dignity and personal and professional integrity.
At St Flannan's Church, Fr Pat Malone has spoken of the mark "Axel" made in his 42 short years of life on his family, friends, colleagues, sports fans and the local community.
Killaloe has come to a stand still this afternoon as hundreds of people have gathered at St Flannan's Church to pay tribute to Munster and Ireland rugby player Anythony Foley.
Among them, rugby stars from across the country, including close friend Keith Wood, Marcus Horan, Declan Kidney, Joe Schmidt and Tony Ward.
"Stand Up And Fight" rung out in the Church as mourners gathered, and music was provided by the Killaloe Parish Choir.
Chief celebrant and family friend Fr Pat Malone's first words were to Anthony's family to whom he expressed his sorrow over their shock and pain, and said he hoped the presence today would provide comfort at this difficult time.
Fr Malone spoke of Anthony as a family man and of his wife Olive as his one true love. He said they complimented ach other well, ying and yang in perfect balance with each other.
He expressed hope that cherished moments with their father would in time offer many moments of pleasure to his sons Tony and Dan.
Mourners heard of the amount of care Anthony offered to so many people, that he had the great human capacity to notice those who were struggling and his abilty to reach out to them in a sensitive and caring way, and of the mark that Anthony "Axel" Foley has left on his family, friends, colleagues, sports fans and the local community.
Before finishing with a prayer for Anthony's family, Fr Pat Malone said he's fairly certain that God could do with a top class number 8.
Anthony's sisters Orla and Rosie were among those who read prayers during the ceremony, while his sons Dan and Tony brought water and wine to the alter.
His wife Olive paid an emotional tribute to him, and thanked those who have paid tribute to her husband this week.
"Passing Thomond Park, passing his beloved Munchins, from Limerick To Killaloe, and the homecoming he got as we brought him through our town, it was beautiful" she said.
"He would have absolutely hated the fuss" she added, a comment which was greeted by laughter from those in the congregation.
Anthony Foley will be laid to rest in Reilig Lua this afternoon.
May he rest in peace.
