Tyrone man and his US family killed in crash are laid to rest

MOURNERS from both sides of the Atlantic gathered in Wexford forthefuneralMassoffourfamily members from the US who were tragically killed in a car accident earlier this month.

Co Tyrone-born Doug Alexander and his Limerick-born wife Lily, both 75, died alongside their adult sons Stephen and Doug Junior in the collision on the N25 near Cushinstown in Co Wexford on December 4.

The family-of-four lived in Oakland, near Chicago, and had been in the country following the death of Mrs Alexander’s sister Winnie Keevey.

At the Mass in Cushinstown, New Ross, yesterday Bishop Denis Brennan told mourners that the families were united across the Atlantic in love.

“The tragedy which unfolded here last Monday has touched and saddened the whole country. The three families have suffered an unbearable loss. Four people who loved you deeply have been Doug and Lily Alexander (top), and their sons Stephen and Doug Jnr

taken from you in an instant. You also mourn for Winnie and we remember her today as well.”

Father Sean Devereux said the family had been left “wondering if this darkness will ever pass”.

“A journey to grieve a sister, sister-in-law, and aunt ended abruptly. Doug and Lily lived the American dream. They went to the US to build a life for themselves and through hard work they did this. But they also enjoyed life moments and your memories spoken about them over the past week tell of a couple who shared what they had withothers.Theyweregenerous to the end,” he said.

“Doug Jnr had traits of both his parents. He enjoyed life and was hardworking. He brought joy to others through music and had a generous spirit. Steve served his community as a police officer and helped to make dreams come through service provided to the Special Olympics. He gave hope to so many young athletes as he encouraged them to achieved their dream. Fourpeoplewithindividualgifts thattheydidnotboxupanduse only for themselves, but shared with family, friends and the community.”