Game of Thrones star Michelle back home to attend her father’s funeral
GAME of Thrones acting star Michelle Fairley was back in her home town of Coleraine yesterday for the funeral of her father Brian.
Several hundred mourners joined Ms Fairley, her mother Therese and her five siblings at St Malachy’s Church as they said their final farewells to the 85-year-old, who was a wellknown publican in the town.
The Very Rev Diarmuid Sheehan, who was the chief celebrant at Requiem Mass, described Mr Fairley as a “gifted” man who used his gifts to build up his businesses.
In his homily, Father Sheehan said that his daughter Nichola had been with her dad when he peacefully passed away.
He added: “Over the year in which I got to know Brian we shared many thoughts, we had many conversations and we touched many topics. He had many stories to tell, some of them painful, but many of them cheerful. “Brian could have strong views and be a little impatient if things did not go his way, which is a trait we all have when we think of ourselves and not of others. “Sickness took its toll on Brian and, like many who suffer, he wondered what have I done to deserve this… I used say, you have done nothing to deserve this, it’s part of life and the whole of creation is groaning to be set free from the effects of coming into being.”
Fr Sheehan reminded the congregation of the deep love Mr Fairley had for his six children but encouraged them to cherish their own memories of him.
He said: “He wanted the best for his family and he did his best. But none of us are perfect.
“He always encouraged his children to do their best; I believe one of them concerned over an upcoming exam had expressed to her father her worry.
“He said nothing but, in the morning, she found under her pillow a wee note which simply said: ‘you can only do your best’.”
Fr Sheehan urged mourners to each remember their connection to Brian and reflect on how he impacted on their life for the better.
He said: “Many people have shared with me their stories of how Brian was helpful to them over the years. You all have your own memories of Brian, your own stories to tell.
“Hold onto those memories, especially the one you remember most; it is perhaps his word, his message to you.”
Following Requiem Mass, Mr Fairley was laid to rest in Coleraine Cemetery. Michelle Fairley (second left) at the funeral of her father Brian (inset) a former publican in Coleraine