Hundreds of people gathered in Portlaoise as the remains of five-year-old Aaron Hussain, who died after being struck by a car at the weekend, were brought for burial.
The town came to a standstill as mourners, including Aaron's parents and brother, followed the hearse from the funeral home to the cemetery nearby.
Tributes have been paid to Aaron by his parents who described him as a child full of joy and kindness and with a heart bigger than words can describe.
In a post on social media, his mother Irina Novikova thanked people for their love and support in recent days.
"Our hearts are shattered but we are overwhelmed by the love and support from all of you," she said.
The school where Aaron was a junior infant student has also paid tribute.
In a social media post, management at Portlaoise Educate Together NS said the school is devastated by the tragic loss.
"He was so adored by his classmates and he will be sorely missed by all within our school community, in particular his teachers and the staff who worked with him so memorably and enjoyably.
"Our thoughts are with his family and especially with his brother Adam and his parents," the school said.
Psychologists from the National Educational Psychological Service attended the school this week, as they supported and advised staff in their efforts to help the children following the tragedy.
