'You were my best friend' - Father of 17-year-old who died in Kilkenny remembers his beloved son

The funeral service for 17-year-old Luke Crosbie, who tragically died following an accident last Thursday (June 27), has been held today at Clontubrid Church in Kilkenny.

Luke's coffin was carried into the small church by his heartbroken father along with his brothers and other family members, who have been devastated by the tragic loss.

Luke, who has been described as a 'gentle giant who looked out for people', went to school at the National School in Clontubrid.

Late of 11 Nuenna Court, Freshford, Kilkenny, Luke is pre-deceased by his grandmother Monica (Crosby).

He will be deeply regretted by his heartbroken parents Kathleen and Nigel, brothers Hakim and Jack, sister Zoe, grandparents Liam and Siobhan (Crosbie) and Joe (Crosby), aunts and uncles, cousins, relatives and friends.

Throughout the service, Fr Kennedy spoke of the impact Luke's untimely death has had on the community, how life has changed for everyone, not just his heartbroken family's.

Fr Kennedy went on to say how he saw "tremendous strength" in Luke's family over the last few days and though there are "many tears and heavy hearts", it's important to remember the "good times and lovely memories" they have of Luke, who was a "light that shone bright in people's lives, a light that will live on."

Some of Luke's family members read passages from the Bible, reflecting on stories that related to the hard situation they all now find themselves in.

Luke's father Nigel, spoke of his son in such a heart-warming and loving way.

He spoke of how Luke loved cars, UFC, and was always there for his family, that he was someone you could "always rely on".

"You were my best friend", Nigel said, "You always minded me, you helped me every step of the way, you never said no.

"Your mother and I were so proud of the man you were becoming. You will never be forgotten."

Luke will be laid to rest today at St Lachtain's Cemetery, Freshford, Co Kilkenny.