Galway Bay fm newsroom - Bishop Eamonn Casey has been described as an energetic 'do-er,' and a defender of the right of the poor and oppressed.
The former Bishop of Galway has this evening been laid to rest in the crypt at Galway Cathedral.
He died at a nursing home in County Clare this week at the age of 89 following a long illness.
A Trocaire box and family crests were among the symbols of Bishop Eamonn Casey's life which were brought to the altar at his funeral this afternoon.
The mass was celebrated at Galway Cathedral by Bishop of Clonfert John Kirby and Bishop of Achonry Brendan Kelly - a former priest of the Galway diocese.
The service was concelebrated by retired and service members of the Irish Hierarchy, priests of the diocese of Galway, Kilmacduagh and Kilfenora, and of the dioceses of Limerick and Kerry.
The achievements and mistakes of the former Bishop of Galway were highlighted during his funeral homily, which was delivered by Bishop of Achonry, Brendan Kelly.
Another niece Helen Donovan read a prayer of the faithful on behalf of the former Bishop of Galway's friends and family around the world.
Bishop Casey's son, Peter Murphy and his brother, Fr Micháel were not present at today's service
His sister Ita Furlong could not attend due to illness.
However, his sisters in law and many nieces and nephews participated in the mass, doing readings and singing hymns with the Galway cathedral choir.
Among the dignitaries in attendance at the funeral this afternoon were President Michael D Higgins, Commandant Kieran Carey representing the Taoiseach, and a number of city and county councillors.
To finish the ceremony, retired bishop of Galway Martin Drennan offered a prayer.
Following the funeral mass, Bishop Casey was laid to rest during a private ceremony in the cathedral crypt.
He was taken to his final resting place by three relays of six pallbearers - all fellow clergy and family members.
