The funeral of 23 month old Tavia Da Costa took place in Dungannon yesterday, following a heartfelt candlelit vigil.
The remains of the young toddler, who was due to turn two this coming Sunday, were escorted to a local graveyard following requiem mass at St Patrick’s Church.
Members of the town’s East Timorese community were in attendance as well as locals.
The previous evening, more than 400 people attended a candlelit vigil for the young girl, organised by residents of Lisnahull Park.
One of the organisers included Independent Mid Ulster councillor, Barry Monteith.
“For a crowd to turn out like this at such short notice, it shows the real Dungannon and that we’re a community united in grief,” he told the BBC.
“There are people here from far and wide to put their arms round each other and support each other to find away through this.
“Because people have just been shocked and horrified after what happened, so it was important to come together tonight.”
Also speaking that evening was Chairman of the Timorese Association Inclusive Support, Roy Setiawan.
“As a community this has really touched us from the Lisnahull Community Association and we appreciate what have they have done, because it feels like everybody’s loss.
“It’s important to come together tonight to commemorate and remember little Tavia, because we’re all feeling the loss, but a lot of people are here to support her and her family,” said Mr Setiawan.
The East Timorese Ambassador to the UK, Joao Paulo Da Costa Rangel, attended yesterday’s funeral mass.
He thanked the community for its support following Tavia’s death.
“Once again we are grateful to call you friends. Thank you for your love and solidarity during this difficult time experienced by our community,” said Mr Rangel.
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During the mass, images of young Tavia were displayed, as well as some of her toys.
Tavia’s body was discovered at her Windmill Court home on Sunday, October 13.
A post mortem confirmed that the cause of death was blunt force trauma to the head, resulting in a fatal brain injury.
Strabane Magistrates court heard on Thursday that her body was also covered in bruises, including her face and head. There was also evidence that she had been shaken.
Three people have appeared in court charged in relation to her murder.
Januaria Sarmento Ximenes (29) of Windmill Court has been charged with her murder, and child cruelty.
The accused’s partner is Tavia’s mother, Suzi Augusta Jacinta Da Costa (21). Also of Windmill Court, she has been charged with manslaughter, causing or allowing the death of a child or vulnerable person, and child cruelty.
Tavia’s aunt, Suzana Da Costa (24) of Windmill Court, was charged with causing or allowing the death of a child or vulnerable person and child cruelty.
All three were refused bail, and are due to appear back in Dungannon Magistrates Court on November 13.