What could have been a quiet funeral for Michael Purcell became a packed farewell, after strangers in Melbourne turned up to stand in for the family who could not get there.

Michael Purcell, 88, was laid to rest at Springvale Botanical Cemetery after his loved ones in Ireland were unable to attend in person because of flight chaos sparked by the war in the Middle East.

As the funeral approached, Botanical Funerals said it became clear that no one from his family would be there in person.

With the family’s blessing, the funeral team invited members of the community to attend.

“Funerals are a deeply important part of Irish culture,” they explained on a Facebook post. “It is difficult for his family to think that no one would be there in person to farewell him.”

They also made clear that the invitation was open to anyone.

“You don’t need to be Irish,” they said. “We would love to fill the chapel with kindness and human presence.”

On the day of the service, the response was so large that the chapel filled to capacity and some people had to be turned away.

Others remained outside to pay their respects.

As the hearse passed, mourners lined the road in a guard of honour.

Among those who attended was Gloria Grimshaw, who said the turnout left a strong impression on her.

“I feel very special that there are nice people in the world still,” she said.

Another mourner, Lisa Snelling, said she came because no one should be farewelled alone.

“Everybody needs to have somebody,” she said. “And we need a bit more kindness and compassion around, especially at this time. You don’t want anybody to be on their own.”

Michael Purcell’s family watched the funeral by livestream from Ireland.

After the service, the funeral home thanked the people who came to honour him.

“A sincere thank you to all the compassionate individuals who helped form this guard of honour for Michael’s final journey. Thank you to everyone who contributed to this day with light and love.”

📸 Credit: Botanical Funerals By Ian Allison