Death of Father Anthony Fagan
Fr. Anthony Fagan passed away peacefully yesterday (Tuesday) at Cavan General Hospital surrounded by his loving family.
The widely respected priest was born on July 22, 1950 in Bailieborough, in the parish of Killann. He is the son of the late Liam Fagan and Gretta Lynch.
He received his early education in Bailieborough Boys’ National School and Ballinamoney National School before attending St Patrick’s College, Cavan, and later St Patrick’s College, Maynooth, where he studied for the priesthood. He was ordained to the priesthood in the Cathedral of Saints Patrick and Felim, Cavan, on June 8, 1975 by the late Most Rev. Francis J. MacKiernan.
Following his ordination, Fr Anthony was appointed Curate in Cavan on August 2, 1975. In 1988 he was appointed Curate in Cootehill, where his caring pastoral presence endeared him to parishioners and colleagues alike. Following a period of sabbatical leave in 2000, he returned to ministry as Administrator of Cavan Parish on January 1, 2001.
In August 2005, Fr Anthony was appointed Parish Priest of Killinkere, where he ministered with dedication and great compassion.
In September 2015 he became Parish Priest of Drumlease, continuing his faithful service until his appointment as Parish Priest of Knockbride in 2019. In retirement in September 2023, Fr Anthony remained warmly remembered throughout the diocese as a priest of quiet goodness, wisdom, and kindness.
Many tributes have been posted online in memory of Fr Anthony.
A statement on the Diocese of Kilmore website reads: "It is with deep sadness that the Diocese of Kilmore announces the death of Fr Anthony J. Fagan, a much-loved priest of the diocese whose gentle manner, kindness, and faithful pastoral service touched countless lives over many decades of ministry."
"His priestly ministry was marked by a deep gentleness, humility, and genuine care for people. Parishioners remember him as deeply committed to the spiritual and pastoral life of his people."
Meanwhile, Knockbride GFC offered their "deepest condolences" to the family, friends and parishioners on the passing of Fr. Anthony Fagan.
"Fr. Anthony Fagan was a valued member of our community and will be fondly remembered by all who knew him."
"Our thoughts and prayers are with you all at this difficult time."
Fr Anthony is deeply regretted by his sisters Rita Clarke and Maura, brother-in-law John, nephews Sean and Damien, nieces-in-law Alison and Anne, grand-nephew Thomas, Bishop Martin Hayes, Bishop Emeritus Leo O’Reilly, fellow Priests and his wide circle of family and friends. He is predeceased by his parents Liam and Greta.
"May His Gentle Soul Rest In Peace," his death notice reads.
Reposing at Clarke’s Funeral Home, Bailieborough on Thursday 28th May from 4pm – 7pm. Removal to arrive at St. Anne’s Church, Bailieborough at 7:30pm. Funeral Mass at 12 noon on Friday 29th with burial afterwards in St. Anne’s Cemetery. Funeral Mass can be viewed live via St. Anne’s Church Webcam.