'Profound sadness' at passing of former Bishop of diocese covering large part of Offaly

There is much sadness this morning following the passing of Bishop Emeritus of Killaloe, Willie Walsh.

Bishop Emeritus Walsh passed away late on Wednesday, February 19. He was Bishop for Killaloe which covers the Birr, Shinrone, Kilcolman and Kinnitty parishes in Offaly. 

In a statement this morning, the current Bishop of Killaoe, Bishop Fintan Monahan paid tribute to Bishop Emeritus of Killaloe, Willie Walsh.

"There is profound sadness in the Diocese of Killaloe with the news of the death of Bishop Emeritus Willie Walsh who passed away late yesterday, 19 February, having celebrated his 90th birthday in recent weeks. 

"He was dearly loved by the many whose lives he touched in his extraordinary pastoral ministry.  

"A native of Roscrea in Tipperary, he spent his entire priesthood ministering in Ennis, Co Clare, in Saint Flannan’s College, in the Cathedral Parish, as Bishop of the Diocese of Killaloe and in retirement in recent years. 

"His Episcopal motto was Cinéaltas Chríost - The Gentleness of Christ - and his ministry radiated that in his care for the poor, pastoral support to survivors of abuse, to anyone who was in trouble, and anyone struggling in life. 

"He was passionate about hurling and was central to the success of many teams in Saint Flannan’s College, Éire Óg club in Ennis and Co Clare. 

"He will be sadly missed by his family who meant so much to him, by his wide circle of friends and clergy and laity in the diocese of Killaloe.  

"May his gentle soul rest in peace. Go raibh leaba aige i measc na Naomh."

Funeral arrangements for Bishop Emeritus Willie Walsh will follow later.

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