Mourners at the funeral of “easy going” and “fun loving” Oran Marron heard that he had many loves in life… the greatest of which was his family.
Twenty-one year old Oran from Crossmaglen passed away suddenly following a short illness after moving to Australia on March 10, shortly after his 21st birthday.
Celebrating Requiem Mass at St Patrick’s chapel, Father Maloney acknowledged that on a such a sad day there would be no answer to the question, “Why did Oran die so young?”
Oran was a leap year baby, born on February 29, 2004. The priest added: “So we could say he had five birthdays, not 21.”
But in that short life he achieved much and loved widely.
Of Oran’s many loves, Father Maloney said: “He loved Gaelic football playing under age with Crossmaglen Rangers. He supported Cross Rangers and Armagh and actively followed the GAA Championship with great interest, even if Armagh were no longer involved.
“He was a Man United supporter in the midst of Liverpool supporters and wasn’t afraid to cheer them on, even if Liverpool were winning the Premiership.
“Koda was his dog who donned the Man United jersey as he brought him for a walk.
“He enjoyed country music. Declan Nerney was one of his favourite artists.
“He worked in Applegreen in Castleblayney. His friends will fondly remember his easy going personality and his great laugh. He enjoyed the fun and the banter.
“His greatest love of all was his family. Jacquie today has many treasured memories that will stay with her all her life.”
When Oran travelled to Australia, the priest said he did so with a motto: “I am there, not to make money, but to make friends” and in the space of six months the priest said he made many friends who are today mourning his loss.
In testament to his great sense of humour, Father Maloney shared that Oran recently told his granny he was “living the champagne lifestyle on a lemonade budget”.
Oran held a deep faith. Two years ago he went on a pilgrimage to Medjugorje – an experience he loved and hoped to return to one day – and “always wore his Celtic Cross”.
And while Father Maloney acknowledged the grief of Oran’s nearest and dearest, he said they were “consoled” by the fact that during his life Oran “showed much love”.
Among offertory items brought to the alter by Oran’s loved ones was a family photo and a photo with friends, both of which Father Maloney regarded as “very apt” for the love he had for those around him.
There was a mobile phone symbolising how “keenly” he communicated with those at home.
A Cross Rangers jersey denoted his lifelong support of his home club and a Costcutters’ uniform representing the love he had for his job and colleagues.
Two flags – Irish and Australian – honoured his love for both countries and the life he built in each.
The priest offered his sincerest condolences on behalf of himself and Deacon Paul Casey to all of Oran’s friends and family, at home and in Australia and promised to keep them in prayer in the days, weeks and months ahead.
Speaking after the funeral, Sinn Féin MLA Aoife Finnegan said the entire community is heartbroken.
“The entire community of Crossmaglen and beyond is devastated and heartbroken at the untimely loss of Oran Marron,” she said.
“Oran was a bright, talented, and kind young man who was deeply loved by his family, his friends, and all who knew him. His passion for life, his dedication to Crossmaglen Rangers, and the joy he brought to those around him will never be forgotten.
“Today we stood with the entire Crossmaglen community and beyond as we attended Oran’s funeral – a deeply emotional and sorrowful day for us all.
“The pain felt by Oran’s family, particularly his mother Jacqueline, is unimaginable. No parent should ever have to make the heart-breaking journey across the world to bring their child home like this.
“The shock and grief that has gripped our community is profound. Yet, in the midst of this tragedy, the people of Crossmaglen have shown incredible strength, compassion, and solidarity. That same strength will now surround the Marron family in the difficult days ahead.
“We extend our deepest sympathies to Jacqueline, to Oran’s family and friends, and to everyone who mourns his passing. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all.
“Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam uasal.”
