The oldest and longest serving priest of the diocese of Clogher, Canon Edward Murphy, died this week, aged 95.


Described as “a kind and gentle pastor”, Canon Murphy had been parish priest in Galloon Parish, Newtownbutler since 1983 and he remained as parish priest and Pastor Emeritus until his death on Saturday morning.
Tributes have been paid to the highly regarded priest as the village of Newtownbutler mourns the loss of “a true saint”.


A native of Killanny Parish, County Louth, Canon Murphy served as a priest in Scotland for a few years before becoming curate in Enniskillen in 1950 (aged 29). He moved to Eskra, County Tyrone in 1973, and in 1983 was appointed parish priest of Newtownbutler, where he remained for the past 33 years.


The priest, who will be missed by young and old, died in the South West Acute Hospital, Enniskillen on Saturday morning after a short illness.
His Funeral Mass took place on Tuesday afternoon in St. Mary’s Church, Newtownbutler, followed by burial in the adjoining cemetery.


Bishop of Clogher Liam MacDaid said: “Canon Murphy was the oldest and longest serving priest of the diocese of Clogher and remained in active ministry almost to the very end of his long life. He was highly regarded as a kind and gentle pastor. He was also an accomplished musician whose work with Church choirs is remembered with admiration and affection. May he rest in peace.”


Affectionately known as Fr. Eddie, Canon Murphy was renowned for his great interest in singing. The many shows he staged over the years in the parishes he served will be remembered as part of his long legacy.


First Fermanaghs GFC, Newtownbutler stated: “The club, town and parish are saddened to hear of the passing of Canon Murphy – a true saint, and a friend to everyone. Today is a sad day. Everyone can remember at least one piece of advice the Canon gave them. He did so much for the community and the Irish heritage. May he rest in peace. He will never be forgotten.”


Donagh Development Information added: “It was a sad weekend for the parish following the news of the passing of Canon Murphy. He held a very special place in all our hearts and although he will be forever missed, we all have such amazing memories of his time among us. To all his family, friends and indeed everyone in our community and Newtownbutler community we express deepest sympathies.”


Impartial Reporter readers took to our Facebook page to pay tribute. Don McDermott wrote: “A lovely man. His truly was a vocation. After a lifetime serving God and his parishes, he is getting his rewards in Heaven.” 
Sinead Fitzpatrick Morrissey said: “Canon Murphy epitomised what every priest should be: gentle, kind, compassionate, gracious, humble, devoted, inclusive, inspiring. Galloon parish will not be the same without his ministry. As so many have said before: a ‘saint’ walked among us.”