Mia Keevan, from Carrick-on-Suir, was attending the Emerge music festival in Belfast on Sunday, August 24, when she took ill. The PSNI have confirmed that the teenager passed away after becoming unwell at an event in the Boucher Playing Fields.
Her funeral announcement stated that Mia “had big dreams and an even bigger heart. Her infectious laugh, feisty attitude, and ability to make anyone smile will never be forgotten”.
Mia’s remains will be reposing at Walsh’s Funeral Home Carrick-on-Suir on Friday, August 29, from 5pm to 6.30pm. The funeral mass will take place on Saturday at 10.30am in St Nicholas’ Church followed by burial afterwards in St Mary’s cemetery.
The family has requested that mourners attending Mia’s funeral to wear light or bright coloured clothing.
Mia is mourned by her mother Debbie, sisters Kyah, Jade and Sophia also Philly who held a special place in her life, her grandparents Marie and Eddie, Angela and Noel, and Tonnie, her boyfriend Jack., sisters’ partners Jamie and Nathan, best friends Ella, Jayden and Keeley, aunts, uncles, extended family and her wide circle of friends.
She was predeceased by her father Alan and her aunt Jacinta.
Two other people were hospitalised after taking ill at the same event in Belfast.
“A woman aged in her 30s is in a serious but stable condition at this time, while a boy aged in his teens received treatment and is expected to make a full recovery,” said a police spokesperson said on Monday.
Mia Keevan
Tributes have been flowing in since news of Mia’s death emerged.
Tipperary county councillor David Dunne said Mia’s family would be well known in Carrick-on-Suir and expressed his sympathies to the family.
“She was in her late teens,” said Cllr Dunne. “There is a great shock and sadness in the community and our hearts go out to the family, and we will rally behind them as we always do.”
Carrick-on-Suir has been hit by a series of tragedies in recent weeks. “Another tragedy, we have had too many lately. It’s been a rough few weeks,” said Cllr Dunne referring to the drowning of Daniel (Danny) Kavanagh in July, and the murder of Ian Walsh earlier this month. Additionally, two other men passed away over the last weekend in tragic circumstances.
Sarah Roche has organised an online fundraiser for Mia’s family. “We are heartbroken to share the passing of Mia,” said Sarah.
“A bright, fun and much loved girl who touched the hearts of anyone that knew her. Mia was such an outgoing person and lit up everyone room she walked into.
“Her laughter and warmth will never be forgotten by those lucky enough to have known her. At this difficult time we are coming together to support Mia’s family with the unexpected costs they face and to give them space to grieve without added financial worry. Any donation will make a difference and is deeply appreciated.”
So far the gofundme.com campaign has raised over €5,000 and donations can be made at the page called ‘Mia Keevan’.
One mourner wrote: “Sincere condolences Debbie, Kyah, Jade, Sophia, Philly and Jack. No words can express the sadness and what you are all going through at this devastating time.
“Please remember all the good times you all shared. From Mia’s christening, communion, confirmation, first days at school, holidays, chilling together, days out, watching TV together.
“God had big plans for Mia that is why he has chosen her. To walk beside and guide you all every day and watch over you all. May Mia’s gentle soul rest in eternal peace.”