COMMUNITY NOTES: NORTH MAYO - WESTERN PEOPLE (MAY 20 EDITION)
It was with a great sense of sadness and loss that the Knockmore parish community learnt of the passing of Rev Fr Des Smith, SMA Society of Africa Missions, Blackrock Rd, Cork, and former curate of Knockmore parish.
Fr Des spent many years on the missions in Nigeria prior to serving as curate in Rathfuff Church for over twelve years where he was always so highly thought of. During the past week parishioners recalled many special memories of Fr Des, they spoke of his great kindness, gentleness and approachable manner. The wealth of experience from his work abroad was always evident in his inspiring words in his weekend sermons. Words that will remain with them always.
Fr Des passed away unexpectedly but peacefully at the SMA House, Claregalway, Co Galway, on Friday, May 9, last. His remains reposed at the SMA House on Monday evening and following 10am Mass of Thanksgiving on Tuesday morning, the transfer of his remains took place to Blackrock Rd, Cork. His 12 noon Requiem Mass was celebrated on Wednesday in St Joseph’s SMA Church with his interment taking place afterwards in the church grounds.
The people of Knockmore parish extend their deepest sympathy to his brother Kevin (the last remaining member of their family of seven), nephews, nieces, cousins and his concretes in the society of the African Missions.
May his gentle soul now rest in the peace of the Lord.
