The family of Kofi Jackson Owusu, a 15 year old student who tragically lost his life in a drowning incident, were told during his funeral that he brought smiles and happiness "every day at school" and was described as the "most beautiful boy". Kofi sadly passed away after getting into difficulty in the River Nanny during a beach outing with friends in Laytown, Co Meath, on Friday, June 20. Broken-hearted mourners filled the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG) in Dundalk, Co Louth, to partake in the heartfelt ceremony on Friday. Before the funeral, his heartbroken parents Tony and Maria, along with sisters Faith and Esther, expressed that Kofi "will be so missed". They, together with their wider family, friends, and students from Coláiste Chú Chulainn, as well as Kofi's teammates from Redeemer Celtic, were joined by mourners including Health Minister Jennifer Carroll MacNeill and local TD Ruairí Ó Murchú, reports the Irish Mirror. Pastor Alex Alajiki said it was a very painful experience for everyone and extended gratitude to those present for their support, noting "it is of great comfort for the family". During the service, Kofi's siblings Esther and Faith read passages from the Bible, and Thomas Sharkey, the headteacher of Coláiste Chú Chulainn, gave a moving tribute as Kofi's classmates presented gifts to the altar. Mr Sharkey fondly remembered: "Kofi loved school and school loved Kofi, everyone one of us. "In 2022, he graduated from Redeemer Boys' National School in Dundalk. Ms Doherty sent us his education passport and we are passing it to the altar. She wrote, 'Kofi is a central figure within our class'. "He was going to Madrid in October to learn the language and teach them how to play football and for the sunny weather, so we have sunflowers for Kofi. "Kofi always followed the sun. Where Kofi went, the smiles followed. He brought joy and smiles every day at school. "He came to school every day because he had discipline and because [his mother] Maria made him. He was given an award by Minister of Health Jennifer Carroll MacNeill, who is here today. "We also present his No. 6 basketball jersey and his Football Association of Ireland medal." Minister MacNeill told the family at the Mass: "Kofi had a wonderful, far too short, very young life. "It was my great pleasure and privilege to meet him. Many loved this very fabulous boy. "To his family, I am so sorry for your loss. I am truly very sorry for your loss. I thought he was the most beautiful boy. "It is wonderful to see how this whole community turned up for you to show their love for you and your son. My heart is with you in these most difficult of days." Louth TD Ruairí Ó Murchú addressed the mourners, saying: "We would all prefer not to be here. Kofi has impacted a huge amount of lives." He reflected on the fleeting nature of life: "None of us know how long we're going to be here, but I would wish for all of us that we would have a life that is as full and as true as Kofi's." Extending his condolences, he added: "My condolences are with you and I am very sorry. You should be very very proud of Kofi. He was really, truly a great young man and we all hope that we can live a life as true as his." Kofi’s former school, Redeemer Boys' National School in Dundalk, also paid their respects, saying: "At just 15, Kofi touched more lives than many do in a lifetime. We have some wonderful memories of Kofi's time with us here in RBS." Their message highlighted the young man's impact: "A pupil, a friend, a leader - Kofi was much more than just a student in our school; he was a shining example of kindness, integrity, dedication and positivity." Kofi had recently played in an All-Ireland basketball final and in a Leinster soccer final at under-16 level. An online fundraising effort to cover the funeral costs surpassed its goal, gathering €12,953 by Friday afternoon, which exceeded the initial €11,000 target set a day before the funeral. Kofi was buried in St Patrick's Cemetery in Dundalk.