Obituary: Fr Joe Murtagh SSC

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Fr Joe Murtagh SSC
1928 - 2007

Fr Joe Murtagh died at Our Lady¹s Hospital, Navan, Co. Meath in the early hours of 28 September 2007. Born at Mullacroy, Drumcree, Mullingar in 1928, he was educated at Ballinvalley NS and St Finian¹s College, Mullingar. He came to St Columban's, Dalgan Park, in 1946 and was ordained priest on 21 December 1952.

He was initially appointed to study agriculture in Louisiana, USA and then in 1954 to the Philippines. From January 1955 until May 2001 he worked in parishes of Mindanao, apart from a brief two years on promotion work in London. In the parishes of Lanipao, Aurora, Ramon Magsaysay, Tangub, Molave, Oroquieta and Ozamis he is remembered with great affection. A tireless pastoral worker, Joe had a deep affection for the Filipino people. His great gift was to be a faithful friend, a non-judgmental listener, and a wise counsellor to so many people wherever he was assigned.

More than 20 years ago he was diagnosed with the first symptoms of multiple sclerosis. As he gradually lost mobility, he was appointed to be the district bursar in Catadman, Ozamis. There he was a welcoming presence, always ready to give a sympathetic ear to the troubles of his
fellow-Columbans and to friends from his previous parish assignments who continued to seek him out. His gentle good-humour made him a special friend of the children.

In May 2001 he retired to the Nursing Home in Dalgan Park. Through the internet he maintained contact with countless friends from the Philippines.
As his sickness progressed, he showed great courage and resignation. He rarely complained, his focus invariably on the needs of others rather than on himself. We will miss his gentle eloquent presence among us.

May he rest in peace.