FUNERAL OF SEAN LARKIN
Remains Overnight in Derry Church.

The remains of Sean Larkin, who was executed in Drumboe Castle during the civil war, arrived by motor in Derry on Wednesday afternoon, and were conveyed to St. Columb's Church, Waterside. It will be remembered that Larkin was one of the four Republicans executed at Drumboe Castle, and some time ago, the remains of all four were disinterred and taken to Athlone by the Military authorities. Enclosed in what appeared to be a wooden box, the remains, which had been handed over to the relatives on Wednesday, were conveyed to Derry by motor from Athlone, and were escorted by seven other cars, containing relatives and friends of the deceased. The relatives included the Rev. J. Larkin, C.C., (a brother) and his sisters. On reaching St. Columb's Church, the remains were received by Rev. W.B. McFeely, R.D., P.P., and placed on a catafalque in front of the High Altar. Prayers for the dead were offered up by Fr. McFeely.

During the evening, many visited the Church, and throughout the night a number of young men acted as a guard of honour, four remaining on duty, and being relieved at intervals of half an hour by comrades.

Early yesterday morning, an extraordinary incident took place, when a party of "B" Specials under an officer, observing in the vicinity of the Church, some of those who acted as the guard of honour, approached the sacred building. They enquired of the men what they were doing there, and on being informed that they had no permits, the officer in charge of the Specials decided to take their names. It is stated that some of the Specials entered the Church.

Yesterday morning Mass was celebrated by Father P. Kelly, C.C., following which, the final stage of the deceased's last journey home was undertaken. The cortege proceeded by motor to the Church at Loup, in South County Derry, where, following Requiem Mass, the internment took place, amid affecting scenes, in the family burying-ground, In St. Columb's Church, prior to the coffin being carried out, prayers were recited by the Rev. W. B. McFeely, B.D., P.P.

During Wednesday evening, the coffin in which the remains of young Larkin were incased, was suitably mounted and draped by an undertaker in the City.

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