Funeral held after tragic death of Darlington's Asa William Burnside

People from far and wide turned out at St Cuthbert's Church in Darlington to say goodbye to the beloved tot after his tragic death last month.

Asa William Burnside was born on March 26, 2020 but was diagnosed with a rare neurological condition called, Niemann-Pick Type A.

The two-year-old, who was son to Elizabeth and Joe and brother to Elizabeth, Julianna and Joe, passed away with his family by his side on October 23.

Today, his funeral was held as hundreds gathered ahead of the service. The Northern Echo attended with the permission of the family.

Floral tributes for two-year-old Asa Burnside from Darlington (Image: Sarah Caldecott, Newsquest)

Read more: Family pay tributes to 'lovely and happy' Darlington boy, two, who died from incurable condition

At the funeral, five Rolls Royce’s drove down to the church and a Range Rover with the number plate “III ASA” followed.

As mourners entered the church, the song, How Long Will I Love You, by Ellie Goulding was performed live by CK Gospel Choir before You’ll Be In My Heart by Phil Collins played.

Revered James Harvey conducted the service and welcomed everyone after Asa’a small coffin was carried down the aisle, a poignant reminder that this was a life cut short.

Psalm 23 was read before Tom Welch read some memories of Asa on behalf of the family, including Asa’s first birthday when a big party was held. There were balloons, presents, cake and he was surrounded by his many cousins.

Crowds gather ahead of the funeral of Asa Burnside (Image: Sarah Caldecott, Newsquest)

Read more: 10 people who've recently passed away as families pay tribute in The Northern Echo

Asa also loved children and his face would light up when his siblings would walk into the room. He would kick his legs in excitement, and they would also laugh together.

One of Asa’s brother Joe’s favourite memories was of watching Toy Story and Finding Nemo while cuddling his little brother.

The cheeky little boy also loved Cadbury’s chocolate buttons which was echoed by the floral tributes outside the church with reference to chocolate, Toy Story and Finding Nemo.

Scars in Heaven by Casting Crowns was then performed, again by CK Gospel Choir as mourners struggled to hold back tears.

Asa's coffin is carried out of St Cuthbert's Church in Darlington (Image: Sarah Caldecott, Newsquest)

Read more: Family raise £100,000 for Darlington toddler with rare incurable condition

Asa's mother and father, Elizabeth and Joe Burnside said: “To say we are proud to be his mam and dad is an understatement. We are honoured and blessed beyond understanding to have been given such a perfect son, and the opportunity to be part of his life and an opportunity to show that although we endured the unimaginable he showed us so much.

“How to love like we never knew and to never take life for granted.

“For a little boy who spoke a few words, but has spoken to the hearts of so many.

“Although grief is the price we pay for love, we were the lucky ones to have you as our precious son.

“Thank you for choosing us Asa.”

When the choir performed Tears in Heaven by Eric Clapton, the crystal-clear emotive vocals captured the touching sorrow felt throughout the church.

The Lord’s Prayer was read by all before little Asa’s coffin was carried out of the church while You’ve Got A Friend In Me from Toy Story played, as it was one of Asa’s favourite films.

It was during this time that there was not a dry eye in the room, as everyone gazed at a little boy’s innocent home comforts.

Crowds gather at St Cuthbert's Church (Image: Sarah Caldecott, Newsquest)

Read next:

• Darlington family raising awareness about toddler's deadly genetic disorder
• Moving funeral service held for County Durham toddler Maya Chappell
• Heartbreaking words from grieving dad ahead of County Durham toddler's funeral

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