‘Devastating illness’ claims the life of priest

Fr Byrne died on Saturday at the Southern Area Hospice in Newry.

He was diagnosed just five weeks ago, according to a statement from Éire Óg GAC.

Posting on Saturday the Craigavon based Gaelic club said: Fr John Byrne, our parish priest, died peacefully this morning in Newry Hospice following a short but devastating illness.

“Fr Byrne was only diagnosed five weeks ago, and was still up until very recently celebrating mass at St Anthony’s.

“On behalf of Éire Óg GAC we offer our condolences and ask members to keep Fr Byrne’s family in their prayers over the coming days.

“We would also like to at this point, remember our former parish priest, Fr Martin McAlinden who also died on this day, June 13, 2016. Martin’s fourth anniversary occurs today.

“On the feast of St. Anthony, we offer prayers for both Martin, John and their families.”

Fr Byrne’s remains reposed at Mayobridge Parochial House from Saturday.

His remains will leave Mayobridge on Monday evening at 6.15pm arriving at Newry Cathedral for 7pm - those wishing to pay their respects can do so up to 10pm on Monday evening - social distancing being observed at all times.

His Funeral Mass will take place on Tuesday at 1pm in Newry Cathedral and burial afterwards in St Mary’s Cemetery.

Fr Byrne was a governor at Lismore Comprehensive School, which also paid tribute: “It is with great sadness that we have learned of the untimely passing of our esteemed Governor, Parish Priest and Friend of Lismore, Fr John Byrne R.I.P.

“The Lismore community offer the support of their prayers and deepest sympathy to Fr Byrne’s family, friends, and parishioners at this time.”

A notice on the Funeral Times website stated: “Very Reverend John Byrne PP. Died peacefully at Southern Area Hospice, Newry 13th June, 2020. Parish priest of Moyraverty and Seagoe Parishes, Diocese of Dromore. Dearly beloved son of the late Dr Patrick and Bernadette Byrne, Late of Greenan Road, Newry and dearest brother of Tim, Siobhan and Nick.”

It added: “Sadly due to the current situation the wake and funeral are strictly private. The Funeral Mass can be viewed live via the Parish webcam - church services tv/newry cathedral.

“A memorial service will take place at a later date.

“Deeply regretted by his sorrowing brothers, sister, brother in law Tim, sisters in law Andrea and Claire, nephews, nieces, family circle, Archbishop Eamon Martin, Bishop John McAreavey, the Priests and Religious of the Diocese and the parishioners of Moyraverty and Seagoe parishes and also the parishes where Fr John served and his many friends.”