A graveside service was held in southern England to remember Father Michael Kelly on the 80th anniversary of his death but little is known about the priest.
He is buried in a Commonwealth War Grave in the cemetery attached to Our Lady of Sorrows Catholic Church in Fordingbridge, Hampshire.Fr Michael was one of four Catholic RAF Chaplains among the World War 2 dead. All four of them were from Ireland.
Efforts have been made in the past to track down relatives of Fr Michael Kelly but to no avail and now, to honour his 80th anniversary, the Bishopric of the Forces has issued a public appeal for the support of people in Limerick in identifying him.
The recent service was conducted by the Principal Catholic Chaplain of the RAF, Padre Dave Skillen.
A Mass for Fr Michael was also celebrated by RAF Chaplain Fr James Mealy, who is currently stationed on the Falklands Islands.
Padre Skillen said: “Sadly little is known about Fr Michael Kelly apart from the fact that he died in a military hospital.
“Efforts to track down any descendant members of his family have so far been without success. If there are any descendants of Michael l am sure they would like to know that he is not forgotten and if they want to visit his grave l would make arrangements to welcome them.”
If anyone has information that could help track down relatives of Fr Kelly, Padre Dave can be contacted at 0044 7770 538693.