Tuesday, November 14, 2023

Tributes paid to Fr Brian White who served in Blackrock and Dundalk parishes

Lent a hand: Priest takes to streets to give ashes | Independent.ie

A book of condolences has been opened in St Patrick’s Dundalk for Fr Brian White, who died at his home at Tullysaran, Co Armagh on Wednesday November 8.

The popular priest was very well-known in the Dundalk and north Louth area, having served in the parish of Blackrock and Haggardstown as well as St Patrick’s, Dundalk. He also served in Keady, Co Armagh and Warrenpoint, Co Down.

Announcing his death, Armagh parish said “It’s with great sadness that we share the passing of Fr Brian White, a priest of the Archdiocese of Armagh, a parishioner here in Armagh and a great friend to so many,”

Fr White was fondly remembered by parishioners in Blackrock and Dundalk as “a kind and caring person and always gave the most interesting and enlightening ceremonies”.

He took a great interest in young people, supporting the work of the local youth club in Blackrock and had also travelled with young people from the area to World Youth Days.

He had played a leading role in getting the Community Centre refurbished and had supported local community groups.

During the Covid-19 pandemic, he brought the ashes onto the streets of Blackrock on Ash Wednesday so that he could administer them to parishioners at a time when churches were closed..

“It’s with heavy hearts that the priests of St Patrick’s, St Nicholas’, Holy Redeemer & Holy Family Churches share our shock and deep sadness at the sudden death of our brother Fr Brian White,” the Dundalk parish posted on social media.

"We give thanks to God for all of his faithful ministry in the parishes he ministered to, his youth ministry, and especially his time with us here in Dundalk.”

Fr White had a great interest in sports, and his local GAA Club paid tribute to him, as did Ból-Chumann Uladh, who remembered him as “a brilliant underage bowler” who continued his interest in road bowls up until his death.

He is survived by his siblings Geraldine, Feargal, Darina, nephews, nieces, great-nephews, great-nieces, sister in law, brothers in law, friends, neighbours, Archbishop Eamon Martin, Bishop Michael Router, Cardinal Sean Brady, his fellow Priests and the parishioners of the parishes where Fr. Brian served.