Mayo native who was Parish Priest for 44 years in Australia dies

A pioneering Louisburgh priest who spent his life dedicated to the Catholic Church in Melbourne, Australia has died. Fr John O’Reilly, a native of Shraugh, Louisburgh passed away peacefully on February 7 after a short illness.

His contribution to Catholic education in Melbourne left a legacy where he was dedicated to community and delivering the word of God.

Son of Austin and Delia (nee McMyler), he was born in 1937 and raised with his eight sisters and two brothers. After completing his primary and secondary education, he joined St Peter’s College Seminary in Wexford. Fr John was ordained in June 1961 and he decided to migrate and volunteer for priestly ministry in Australia.

In 1968, he was assigned to the disadvantaged sprawling parish of St Albans in Melbourne where he became Parish Priest in 1973. St Alban’s was largely made up of migrants, of which he was one. Fr John worked tirelessly in the local community - building schools and colleges and he was very active in the Mercy Care Mission for the elderly and dying.

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The late Fr John O'Reilly.

He was Parish Priest of St Alban’s from 1973 until his retirement in 2017 – an unprecedented stint of over 44 years. The Louisburgh native was an inspiration to so many and he has left a lasting legacy in the Australian state of Victoria.

Noted for his drive, determination and dedication to his parishioners, he built a community of hope and belonging. He was described as a true ambassador for the Catholic faith.

Fr John returned home to County Mayo over the years and always enjoyed meeting family and friends from the Louisburgh area.

His is deeply mourned by his family in Westport and Louisburgh; friends and religious – both in Australia and Ireland. See here for full death notice.