Brenda Fricker: Oscar-winner’s funeral takes place in Dublin

Director Jim Sheridan, who was Oscar-nominated for co-writing and directing My Left Foot, was also present at the funeral

The funeral heard how her role as Christy Brown’s mother in the film was played with “tenderness” and “heart”.

“She didn’t have to act kind, she lived kindness. Her generosity was legendary,” Monsignor Thynne said.

The priest said she “shot from the hip” and told the congregation how Fricker did not like to be contacted before noon as she “liked her mornings” which prompted laughter from the mourners.

He said this was a “golden rule of Brenda’s day”.

“Brenda marched to the beat of her own wonderful, joyful drum. She said it as it was. She shot from the hip.”

Fricker’s friend Virginia Gilbert, who is a filmmaker, shared memories of her friendship with Fricker.

She said Fricker was “never about surface”.

“It was always about what was most authentically valuable. She was remarkable that way. What a privilege to have had such a friend. She could talk to anyone and they had her full attention, she never patronised, never lauded it nor played a part.”

The funeral ended with Jailhouse Rock by Elvis Prestley playing as mourners left the church.