Communities in Kildare and Waterford unite in farewell to Grace and Brian

FAMILY, friends and wider communities from Kildare and Waterford gathered on Friday to bid a final farewell to beloved couple Brian Frisby and Grace Elliott, whose funeral Mass took place on February 27 following their tragic deaths last Saturday.

The service at the Church of Our Lady and St David reflected the deep ties the pair shared with both communities, eloquently celebrated by Naas Parish Priest, Fr Liam Morgan.

A guard of honour formed by members of Naas GAA lined the approach to the church in tribute to Brian’s enormous contribution to local sport. He was widely respected as a minor hurling manager and a central figure in the club, mentoring countless young players.

Originally from Newport Square in Waterford, Brian had become a pillar of the Naas sporting community, while Grace, formerly of Lisduggan and later working as an SNA at Scoil Na Naomh Uilig in Newbridge, was remembered for her warmth, kindness and devotion to family.

During the emotional ceremony, Grace’s sister Laura spoke movingly about her sibling, recalling her as a loving mother and a constant source of support and laughter.

She said: “To Grace and Brian, we will treasure the memories. The great nights out, endless laughs, Grace’s fry-ups, her coffees, her talking about coffees, and her loud, infectious laugh that will stay with us always.” 

Brian’s brother Michael also paid tribute, recalling heartfelt and often humorous memories about his brother, who was known to have “the gift of the gab”.

Michael also read aloud words written by the couple’s young sons, Theo Frisby and Fionn Frisby, expressing their love for their parents and the profound loss they now face.

Brian and Grace were “adored and loved” by their sons and cherished by their heartbroken parents, siblings, extended family, neighbours and many friends across both counties.

Brian was predeceased by his sister Maria and grandparents, while Grace was predeceased by her nephew Ciarán and grandparents.

As the funeral concluded in a packed St David’s Church, the presence of two communities standing side by side, from Naas and Waterford, served as a powerful testament to the lives they built together and the lasting impact they had on all who knew them.

May they rest in peace.