Great sadness at passing of "true pillar" of Ballinamere community

A much-loved Ballinamere missionary priest who dedicated 70 years of his life to the priesthood has been described as “a true pillar” of the local community following his passing yesterday (Tuesday.)

Fr. Rory O'Brien, who was in his 90's, was a member of the St. Patrick's Missionary Society in Kiltegan, and served as the honorary life president of Ballinamere GAA Club. In a warm online tribute the club said it was with “a heavy heart” they were sharing the passing of a man whom they described as “a true pillar of our community” and "a GAA legend.”

Fr. Rory, who was born in Ballinamere, spent over 60 years working on the missions in Nigeria and Cameroon, and wrote a book recalling his personal experience of living through the Nigeria-Biafra Civil War in the late 1960's. He was also the recipient of a Papal Honour for his work on the missions,

Despite his missionary work overseas, Fr. O'Brien closely followed the fortunes of his beloved Ballinamere GAA Club. “While hurling with Ballinamere was his first love he also had great success playing hurling and football with Offaly, Tullamore and Durrow” said the online tribute posted on the Ballinamere GAA Facebook page, where he was described as “a loyal supporter” of the club and their “cherished life president since 1955.” They added that his “dedication, leadership and zest for life” will be “profoundly missed” by all who had the pleasure of knowing him.

The club extended its deepest sympathies to his sister, Sr. Josephine, his extended family, fellow priests in Kiltegan and his wide circle of friends both in Ireland and overseas.

Funeral details have yet to be announced.