Very Rev. Brian McNamara.

1931-2017

Died on 11th October 2017, peacefully, in the care of Tilery Nursing Home, Florencecourt,
in the 63rd year of priesthood

Brain Mac Namara was born on 12 January 1931, at Ernevale in Belturbet Co. Cavan. He was educated at St. Patrick’s College Cavan and, after discerning a vocation to priesthood, he continued his studies at the Pontifical Irish College in Rome and the Lateran University where he was awarded a License in Sacred Theology. Brian was ordained to the priesthood on 5th March 1955 by Cardinal Clemente Micara in the Basilica of Saint John Lateran. Upon ordination he was first sent to serve for a brief period in Birmingham (1956-1956), returning to Kilmore he served in Coronea (1956-1961) Maghera (1961-1963) Manorhamilton (1963-1973)and Arva (1973-1983)before being appointed Parish Priest of Killesher in 1983 where he ministered until his complete retirement from active ministry in 2012.

Fr. Brian was an extraordinarily gifted man, but perhaps his greatest gift was his humility. As an only son and heir to the family farm he made a life changing decision when he went to the seminary but he maintained a lifelong interest in farming. He was as at ease talking about the price of hoggets as he was about the mysteries of the Trinity. An avid GAA supporter, he thoroughly enjoyed trips to local matches or to national fixtures. As a pastor in Northern Ireland during difficult and tense times his great sociability endeared him to all sides of the community. He was no sacristy priest but could be found in the midst of the people he served. His mischievous sense of humour enriched every social gathering and his solid pastoral approach brought comfort to his people in times of pain and loss.

Upon his retirement from active ministry Fr. Brian moved to Derrylin where his many friends still visited and were always delighted to see him so well cared for and looked after. In recent months, as his health declined, he moved to the Tilery Nursing Home, back in his beloved Killesher, and it was from there that the Lord called him home early in the morning of 11th October 2017.

Ego sum pastor bonus et cognosco meas,
et cognoscunt me meae.

I am the Good Shepherd
I know my own and my own know me.

John:10:14

Bishop Leo’s homily at the funeral Mass is available here.

The month’s memorial Mass for Fr. Brian will be celebrated  at 12 noon in Killesher Church, on Saturday 11th November