08 August 2023 , 12:07
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Sinead O’Connor was paid tribute to in a heartfelt eulogy delivered by Shaykh Dr Umar Al-Qadri, an Islamic scholar and Chief Imam at the Islamic Centre of Ireland, during a private funeral.
Dr Umar Al-Qadri, who said he was "humbled by the privilege" of delivering the iconic singer's service told mourners Sinead “suffered more than her share of hardship and adversity”.
The Islamic scholar added: “Gifted with a voice that moved a generation of young people, she could reduce listeners to tears by her otherworldly resonance. One need only listen to her a cappella version of Danny Boy or the traditional Irish tune Molly Malone to know this about her gift. Sinead’s voice carried with it an undertone of hope, of finding one’s way home.
“The Irish people have long found solace in song from the sufferings of this lower abode, and Sinead was no exception, and in sharing that solace, she brought joy to countless people the world over.”
Fans of singer Sinead O'Connor lined the streets for a 'last goodbye' to the Irish singer (PA)Dr Umar Al-Qadri went on to pay tribute to Sinead's legion of fans that gathered outside her former home in Bray, Co Wicklow as her funeral protege passed.
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He said: “Just as Sinead O’Connor brought diverse souls together through her art, so have you orchestrated a symphony of unity during her final journey. Your noble gesture has transcended boundaries and connected strangers, echoing the very essence of Sinead’s legacy.
“In this shared moment of remembrance and prayer, we find ourselves united in a tapestry of love, compassion, and reverence. May this ceremony be a testament to the enduring power of humanity’s collective spirit, as we bid farewell to a remarkable soul who touched us all.”
Fans threw flowers on to the hearse's windscreen during the procession (AFP via Getty Images)The Chief Iman gave his "heartfelt gratitude" to the singer and activist's family for allowing him to deliver Sinead's service.
Friends, family and fans of the acclaimed singer gathered to pay their final respects after the 56-year-old was found unresponsive by police at her southeast London home last week.
As the hearse carrying Sinead's coffin arrived in Bray, for the first time, fans threw flowers on to its windscreen and by the time the cortege reached the singer's former home, the hearse was covered in petals.
The hundreds of fans and loved ones in the crowd started to sing Sinead's iconic 1990 hit Nothing Compares 2 U as the hearse approached.