In the light of a May day evil visited, but in that moment of madness Conor cared for his mum
Funeral tributes for 51-year-old
CONCEPTA Leonard was laid to rest yesterday, remembered as a devoted mum, valued friend, cherished daughter - and tragic victim of a murderous attack.
Fr Brendan Gallagher led hundreds of mourners who gathered in Brookeborough, Co Fermanagh, to say farewell to the 51-year-old. Her father Dinny, sister Denise and brothers Fergal and Kieran were supported by family and friends as they followed her coffin into St Mary’s Church in the hills above the village. Their faces ashen, they bravely accepted handshakes and hugs offered as comfort from people unsure of what else to do. In their midst was her son Conor, the man Concepta had devoted her life to since she was 21, the man who tried to protect her from evil and who offered her comfort as her life ebbed away last Monday afternoon. Friends and colleagues of Conor from the music groups he played drums with and supermarket where he works, held him close and spoke to him through unstoppable tears. At 30, Conor was the man of the house, his mother’s best friend and companion but on Monday he became the only witness to her brutal murder. Fr Brendan Gallagher told mourners: “Sometimes it is difficult, a challenge to overcome fear and to live in the light, in the spirit of hope. “These past few days have been a great challenge to the faith of this family, this community. “Because on Monday afternoon in the light of a May day, evil intent visited this peaceful community. Evil lurking in the shadow, seeking to destroy life. “But in that moment of madness, Conor cared for and protected his mum. We see him holding her hand to reassure her and finding the courage and confidence to seek help.” Concepta died in her Aghavea home, the haven she had built for herself and her son who has Down’s syndrome. She died in a pool of her own blood after allowing estranged partner Peader Phair in the door to explain a text he had sent hours earlier. Fr Gallagher told mourners: “That is the reality, the horror of evil intent. since that time, this family, this community have stood in the light, to confront, to overcome the dark shadows that seek to destroy life. In such a horrific death which Connie experienced, the constant question is Why? Why should such a terrible thing happen to such a beautiful person? “Where is our God in this moment of evil? Could this tragedy have been avoided. Circumstances could have been different. “Many people experience and express feelings of regret. If I had been there to protect. If I had done something differently. “But we know that Connie would not want family or friends, thinking or feeling that way. “Because for her, she had Conor with her, and that was the most important person she wanted with her at that moment.” Former partner Phair, 55, attacked Concepta in a fren“but zied and protracted knife attack which turned fatal. He turned his wicked attention to Conor, stabbing him too, injuring him around the stomach and leaving his life in peril. Phair then hanged himself, ensuring he would not face justice. Despite his fear and injuries, Conor managed to dial 999 and explain what had happened in his home. Then he stayed with his mother, her hand in his, as she lay dying. And yesterday his bravery was spoken of by many and mourners were told Conor will be the reason to look forward, to hope for the future. Fr Gallagher said: “Conor is our future and our reason to hope. Thankfully he survived the ordeal of Monday, because he is the one who will lead us all on the journey of recovery. His love and his affection will be a source of healing for all, he is the light that will renew the spirit of hope in our lives.” Conor had asked to carry his mother’s coffin after it was explained to him she had passed away. Despite his injuries, he managed to do so behind his grandfather Dinny. He took a photo of his mum and himself to the altar during the introduction of the funeral mass.
As Concepta’s coffin was placed in front of the church, her pupils played a reel she had taught them. A floral wreath in pink carnations said simply: mum. And Conor, face drawn, his hand held by his aunt, applauded them before he said thank you and gave his mother a gentle wave goodbye. A guard of honour stood in place as Concepta’s coffin was carried from the church. Pupils from Jones Memorial School, Enniskillen, where Concepta worked as a cook, gathered outside. And pupils from Comhaltas Ceolteoiri Eireann traditional music group in Lisnaskea stood in line each with their instruments in an emotional farewell to the woman who had taught them with such enthusiasm. Killer Phair was buried after a short funeral Mass on Thursday at Holy Cross Church, Lisnaskea. Around 120 people attended the service. No mention was made of his murderous actions. He was buried in a nearby plot by relatives who were comforted in their shock and grief by many supporters. One who attended Concepta’s funeral yesterday said: “Our hearts are sore but we must look to Conor to lead us out of this mess and we have faith his good, kind soul will carry us through.”