Two young brothers who were allegedly murdered by their mother inside their Blue Mountains home have been farewelled during an emotional funeral service.
Ben Smith, nine, and Russell Smith, 11, were allegedly stabbed to death by their mother Trish Smith inside their Faulconbridge residence on September 10.
Their father became concerned for their welfare after not hearing from his estranged wife and arrived at the family home to find his sons unresponsive.
The boys died at the scene, while their 42-year-old mother was taken to hospital with self-inflicted injuries and later charged by police with their murders.
About 700 family and loved ones gathered at Springwood’s St Thomas Aquinas Church on Wednesday morning to say farewell to the Smith brothers.
A few of Ben and Russell’s young friends and family were dressed in football jerseys, most notably Penrith Panthers which were the brothers’ favourite NRL team.
Some mourners were seen visibly upset as they shared hugs, tears and had small discussions before filing in for the service to celebrate their lives.
The boys’ father Nick Smith spoke first and was overcome with emotion during his eulogy, as he glanced down at the casket carrying his two sons.
“Russ and Benny, you were the biggest pleasures and joys of our lives. I will make sure you’re never forgotten,” he said to the crowd of mourners.
Mr Smith also described it as an “absolute privilege” to be their father and that he will forever hold them “so deeply in my heart”.
“You are loved by your family, through your friends, through the community through the school, your soccer club, through the Panthers, throughout society,” he said.
“You will be so missed. You had such beautiful little lives, such beautiful, beautiful adventures. You were such wonderful, cheeky, funny, charismatic boys.
“You made the world a better place. You’re my world, you’re my little Ben, my Russ, you’re my best crew, we had some adventures.
“I’m gonna miss you too, so much. Your memories are your legacy, I love you so much. I will never stop loving you. No one else will either.”
The boys’ mother Ms Smith is reportedly aware it was her sons’ funerals.
She faced court in the days following the alleged murders via videolink and after detectives hit the 42-year-old with two charges of domestic violence murder.
She was in a hospital gown, had her left arm in a cast and bandage on her neck.
The 42-year-old stared at the ground during proceedings.
Ms Smith – who is understood to have mental health issue – did not apply for bail.
She will remain at Amber Laurel Correctional Centre and appear at Penrith Local Court on November 8.
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