Hundreds of mourners have attended a funeral in Hobart for a young mum whose unborn baby was delivered after she died in a car crash.
Sarah Paino died after her car was hit by an allegedly stolen car in the early hours of January 22.
Ms Paino had just dropped off her partner Daniel Stirling for work at a city bakery when the accident happened.
She was 32 weeks pregnant and her baby was delivered at the nearby Royal Hobart Hospital. He was named Caleb and it is believed he is doing well.
A representative from the funeral directors told mourners Ms Paino’s death highlighted “the fragility of life”.
She said Ms Paino, 24, and her partner had been together for nine years and he was “her one true love”.
In a eulogy delivered by Sarah Paino’s uncle Phillip on behalf of her parents, Sarah’s father Michael expressed the deep grief of her shattered family and friends and the shock of many in the community affected by her death: “It hurts so much. Sarah was my baby. May she rest in peace.”
Phillip said her mother, Jane, had described Sarah and sister Olivia as “my whole world”.
“I never knew it was possible to love someone with everything I had,” he said of Jane’s feeling.
“From the time Sarah was born, she and I were inseparable, forming a close bond which we continued over her entire life.
“Sarah was such a beautiful girl, so thoughtful and selfless.
“She had such a lovely sensitive nature and a great outlook on life. You could not find such a caring person.
“I’ve never seen Sarah happier than when she was with Daniel.
“They were soulmates and it brought me so much pleasure that she and Dan were so happy together.
“Life will never be the same without my girl, but she has left us something really precious in her two boys who we will love, protect, guide and support.”
The service also heard remembrances prepared by Ms Paino’s father, Michael.
“How does one commit to words the loss of a child?” Michael said.
“Sarah was a beautiful girl and a great sister to Olivia.
“Sarah was always happy girl with an infectious smile. Motherhood suited Sarah, she was a natural.
“While our hearts are broken with the loss of Sarah, I can take comfort that through Jordan and Caleb I can see Sarah.
“It hurts so much. Sarah was my baby. May she rest in Peace. Love Dad.”
More than 200 mourners attended the 24-year-old’s funeral service at North Hobart.
A fund set up for the family has raised more than $480,000 and a floral tribute remains at the crash site.
A 15-year-old boy has been charged with manslaughter but has yet to enter a plea.
Our thoughts are with the family.
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