The retired Bishop of Waterford and Lismore Michael Russell has died, aged 88 years, the Catholic Church has said. The senior cleric was a former vice-president of St Patrick’s College, Thurles, Co Tipperary before being appointed a Bishop by Pope Paul VI in 1965.
He served as head of the Waterford and Lismore diocese for almost three decades until his retirement in 1993.
His successor, Most Rev William Lee, said he was deeply saddened at the loss of a great friend, who would be missed by many people.
“Bishop Michael was loved and admired by the people and priests of Waterford and Lismore. He will be greatly missed by all,” he said.
“Bishop Michael will be remembered especially for his great love of the Church, his deep faith, his prayerfulness, his devotion to Our Lady, his humility, warmth and approachability.”
The late Bishop was born in Loughmore, near Thurles, in 1920 and went on to study for the priesthood in St Patrick’s College, Maynooth.
After his ordination in 1945, he studied for a Doctorate in Canon Law and was appointed Professor of Moral Theology in St Patrick’s College, Thurles, where he lectured and served as Vice-President.
He is survived by his brothers Conor and Sean and by his sisters-in-laws, Madge and Maura as well as many nephews and nieces.
“I extend my sincere sympathy to his brothers, his sisters-in-law, his nieces, nephews, his family and friends,” said Bishop Lee.
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(Source: IT)