The wife of Niall Crosby, who tragically passed away in a helicopter accident, revealed that her husband was perpetually brave in his pursuits, and being a helicopter pilot had been his ultimate aspiration.
Jillian Crosby, Niall’s widow, attended the memorial service bearing one of their young boys, while holding hands with their elder son, who is of primary school age.
On the day of the memorial held at the National Maritime Museum of Ireland, the skies above Dún Laoghaire were a crystal clear blue. The serenity was only broken by the occasional bird fluttering by. The remains of Mr Crosby were carried in woven basketware.
The incident that caused the life of Mr Crosby, aged 46, unfolded just last week in Co Westmeath. Along with him, his Czech co-pilot also tragically lost his life. The authorities are currently looking into the grievous event.
Mr Crosby had deep connections with Straffan of Co Kildare, yet he had been residing in Glenageary, Co Dublin, after spending significant time in London with his beloved wife.
During the heartfelt service, Mrs. Crosby reminisced to a crowd about his philosophy – family was paramount to him.
“He was my confidante, my love and the most dedicated father to Thomas and Robin”, Jillian Crosby revealed.
Mr Crosby, being a hardworking entrepreneur, started up and skilfully managed a technology firm based in London. Despite being incredibly proud of his successful enterprise, he was always modest and humble, according to Mrs Crosby.
As symbols representative of his cherished hobbies and values, his sons, nephews and nieces laid down a model of an Aston Martin, a globe, a top hat with wand, and other significant tokens at the altar. They depicted Mr Crosby’s passion for automobiles, wanderlust, and magic tricks. The youths themselves stood for the most essential aspect of Mr Crosby’s life, love and family, according to Celebrant Scott Golden.
Mr Crosby’s sibling, Brian, spoke warmly of his brother’s magnanimity and insatiable curiosity.
Mr Crosby, who sadly passed away recently, was renowned for his peculiar antics at parties and was never one to take himself too seriously. Those close to him recall his exceptional kindness and loyalty, and he was known to always prioritise family, shared his brother Brian.
In his professional journey, Mr Crosby started out as an independent software developer and later took advantage of a niche in the data sector, as per Brian. His venture, AG Grid, rose swiftly to the top of the market under his daring and high-standard approach.
At the memorial service, Leonard Cohen’s ‘Hallelujah’ was eloquently performed by Eamon, one of Mr Crosby’s brothers. He interspersed verses with personal messages, expressing his undying love for his dear brother Niall and wishes for his peaceful rest.
[White-tailed sea eagle chicks ready for their first flight in Killarney National Park]
Dr Golden conveyed that the lives of those that Mr Crosby held dear underwent a drastic and irreversible change due to the recent events. Although Niall may no longer physically be with them, his dreams and promises live on through Jillian, Thomas, and Robin, he shared.
Speaking on behalf of the bereaved family, Dr Golden expressed immense gratitude for the outpouring of kindness they received following the tragedy, acknowledging that the impact was far beyond what words could communicate. He concluded the service by assuring that Mr Crosby’s spirit will continue to be felt in every rustle of leaves, beams of sunlight, and each water’s surface ripple.