LIMERICK has lost one of its best known, much-loved, and dedicated priests with the passing of Canon Frank O’Connor, following a brave battle with illness, Bishop Brendan Leahy has stated.
Fr O’Connor passed away on Thursday last (August 1) having suffered motor neurone disease.
Just a few days short of his 71st birthday, Fr O’Connor was one of Limerick’s most recognisable priests who, in his many years of service was president of St Munchin’s College and also ministered in the Reparation Convent, Monaleen parish, and St John’s Cathedral parish.
Fr Frank was also hugely involved in other pastoral areas across the diocese, including in areas such liturgy, diocesan advisors, ecumenism, the Clergy Benevolent Fund, and the Priests’ Council.
Bishop Leahy said “all our hearts are heavy following the news of Canon Frank’s passing as he was such an integral and much-loved part of the community of clergy of Limerick and, indeed, the wide Limerick community.”
“He will be missed by so many, by his relations, a huge circle of friends, just so many across the diocese and beyond.”
Bishop Leahy said “it has been moving in recent weeks to witness the many warm tributes to him that people expressed – relations, neighbours, friends, parishioners and, in particular, former students who were very fond of Frank, admiring his fairness to, and encouragement of them.”
“He always kept the best side out, cheering people with his fine preaching, his sociable nature, his good company seasoned with amusing anecdotes and stories, as well as his courtesy and pastoral sensitivity to those in difficulty.”
The late Fr O’Connor was laid to rest in Mount St Lawrence (extension) Cemetery this past Tuesday following Requiem Mass at Our Lady of the Rosary Church.
