A funeral director has made an emotional appeal for members of the public to attend the funeral of a Belfast man who died with no close family to say goodbye.
Patrick McNally, from West Belfast, died peacefully at a hospice on June 22. In his obituary he was remembered as a loving son, beloved brother, uncle, cousin and friend.
Following his death, Mallon Brothers Funeral Directors shared details of Patrick’s funeral and celebration of life, asking anyone who knew him at any point to come together and honour his memory.
The appeal comes after it emerged Patrick had no close relatives able to attend the service. His only surviving brother had not been in contact with him for more than 50 years, leaving him with no known next of kin.
The funeral directors said they believed every person deserves to be remembered and every life deserves to be honoured.
They invited neighbours, former friends, work colleagues, acquaintances and anyone who simply wanted to show kindness and respect to join Patrick’s final journey.
In their message they said: “If you knew Patrick at any stage of his life, were a neighbour, friend, colleague, acquaintance, or even if you simply wish to stand alongside others in an act of kindness and respect, we welcome you to join us.”
They added that every person who attends, even for a short time, will help ensure Patrick is remembered with dignity, companionship and care.
The funeral directors said they hope the community can come together to give Patrick the farewell he deserves because, in their words, “No one should say goodbye alone.”
