Ireland's oldest priest dies aged 103

The death has taken place of Ireland’s oldest priest, Fr Tony Cummins. He was 103.

The death has taken place of Ireland’s oldest priest, Fr Tony Cummins. He was 103.

Fr Cummins died peacefully at Kilconnell Nursing Home in his native County Galway yesterday. He will to be laid to rest in the grounds of Cappataggle Church near Ballinasloe after midday Mass tomorrow.

Born in Aille near Loughrea in September 1906 he attended Aille National School and Saint Joseph’s College Ballinasloe.

Fr Cummins studied for the priesthood at Saint Patrick's College, Maynooth, and was ordained at St Brendan’s Cathedral in Loughrea in 1932.

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He served in a number of parishes in the Diocese of Clonfert where he was chancellor for many years.

The Irish Bishops' Conference said Fr Cummins was a well respected figure who was dedicated to his ministry and was blessed with an active interest in life right to the end.

Steven Carroll

Steven Carroll

Steven Carroll is an Assistant News Editor with The Irish Times