A "much loved" schoolboy has died from a terminal illness just weeks before Christmas.
Alfie Donegan Rafferty, who is a Year 8 pupil at Saint Edmund Arrowsmith Catholic Academy in Whiston, died on December 14 at the age of 13. Paying tribute, the school said "Alfie's light shone brightly among us for only a short while" but his light and life will "never be lost or forgotten."
His funeral will take place at 12pm on Thursday, December 29, at Greenacres Rainford.
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In a statement shared on their social media pages, Saint Edmund Arrowsmith Catholic Academy said: "It is with deep regret that we write to you today to inform you about the recent loss of a pupil in our school community. Alfie Donegan from Year 8 sadly passed away this week after a brave battle with a terminal illness.
"As we came together today to share the sad news of Alfie’s passing, we drew focus to the candle lights of the Advent Wreath. As we did this, we were reminded how even the tiniest light dispels the darkness and makes a difference to its surroundings.
"Alfie’s light shone brightly among us for only a short while, yet his light and his life made a difference to us, and that can never be lost or forgotten. We recalled how the candles represent Jesus Christ, the Light of the World, - Jesus, who also died, but who rose from the dead and promised us the same.
"Trusting in Jesus’ promise that death is not the end, but the beginning of eternal life, we pray with hope for Alfie: Eternal rest, Grant unto him, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon him, may he rest in peace. Amen. Rest in Peace, Alfie."
Alfie's funeral has been organised Debbie Bennet Funeral Directors, who wrote in a note: "14/09/2009-14/12/2022.
"Much loved son of Hazel and John. Dearly loved brother of Ben and Peyton. A loving grandson and a very special nephew and cousin. Alfie will be very sadly missed by all his family and friends.
"Family flowers only please, donations gratefully received to the Owen McVeigh foundations. Funeral service will be held at Greenacres Rainford on Thursday, December 29 2022 at 12 noon.
"All enquiries to Debbie Bennet Funeral Directors, 31 High Street, Prescot, L34 6HE. Telephone 01514263131 option 1."
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