There is profound sadness in the diocese of Killaloe with the news of the death of  Bishop Emeritus Willie Walsh who passed away late yesterday, February 19th, having celebrated is 90th birthday in recent weeks. He was dearly loved by the many whose lives he touched in his extraordinary pastoral ministry. A native of Roscrea in Co. Tipperary he spent his entire priesthood ministering in Ennis, Co Clare, in St Flannan’s College, in the Cathedral Parish, as Bishop of the Diocese of Killaloe and in retirement in recent years.
His Episcopal motto was Cinéaltas Chríost (The Gentleness of Christ) and his ministry radiated that in his care for the poor, survivors of abuse, anyone who was in trouble and people struggling in life. He was passionate about hurling and was central to the success of many teams in St Flannan’s College, Éire Óg club in Ennis and Co. Clare. He will be sadly missed by his family who meant so much to him, by his wide circle of friends and clergy and laity in the diocese of Killaloe.

May his gentle soul rest in peace. Go raibh leaba aige i measc na Naomh.