Funeral of Émile: a poignant ceremony planned for february 2025

The funeral of little Émile, who tragically disappeared in july 2023 and whose remains were found in march 2024 near the hamlet of Haut-Vernet (Alpes-de-Haute-Provence), will take place on saturday, february 8, 2025. This date was chosen by his relatives to organize a moment of remembrance in two parts, combining a public tribute with family intimacy, according to information from BFM D’ICI.

A public ceremony in a symbolic location

The first part of the funeral will be held at the Basilica of Sainte-Marie-Madeleine in Saint-Maximin-la-Sainte-Baume, in the Var. This basilica, a significant site of Christianity in Provence, was chosen by the family for its spiritual and historical dimension. This sacred place, housing the relics of Sainte-Marie-Madeleine and known for hosting pilgrims and notable figures over the centuries, holds special meaning for Émile’s relatives.

Monsignor Dominique Rey, bishop of the Diocese of Fréjus-Toulon, described this mass as “a ceremony of thanksgiving for the life of this child and of reflection for his departure.” Although he cannot attend due to a constrained schedule, the bishop emphasized the importance of this moment for the deeply faithful relatives, who will find solace and hope in it.

Father Florian Racine, the parish priest of Saint-Maximin, has also stepped forward to provide logistical and spiritual support. While he leaves the celebration of the service to a priest close to the family, he will ensure that everything unfolds in the best conditions. “We know this ceremony will attract media attention and draw a large crowd. The basilica, with its capacity, is the ideal place to allow all those wishing to pay tribute to Émile to do so with dignity,” he explained.

A moment of intimacy for the burial

After the mass, the family will gather in the strictest privacy for Émile’s burial. While an interment in the family’s village of La Bouilladisse was initially considered, it has ultimately been decided that the little boy will rest in the cemetery of the hamlet of Haut-Vernet. This place, marked by the tragedy of his disappearance, represents a profound connection to his story.

Discussions with the municipal council to organize this burial are ongoing. “This little one must rest in peace, and if he is buried here, he will be at home,” said a resident of the hamlet, reflecting the respect and emotion surrounding this tragedy.

A case still shrouded in mystery

Émile disappeared on july 8, 2023, while staying at his maternal grandparents’ secondary residence in Haut-Vernet. In march 2024, a hiker discovered human remains, later identified as belonging to the child. Ten months after this discovery, the judges overseeing the case have authorized the return of Émile’s remains to his family.

This funeral will mark an intense moment of reflection for Émile’s relatives and the many people touched by this tragedy. While the causes of his death remain unexplained, the tribute paid to him will reflect the love and hope of his family, in a spirit of peace and dignity.