Limerick Leader/1925/A Great Priest, Canon O'Kennedy Dead

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A Great Priest

Canon O'Kennedy Dead

We very much regret to announce the death which took place an an early hour yesterday morning at the parochial residence, Fedamore of the Very Rev. Richard Canon O'Kennedy, P.P. The deceased clergyman had been ailing for a considerable time past, and his death, which came peaceably, was not unexpected. The late Canon O'Kennedy was in his 75th year and all his ministerial work was spent in the diocese off Limerick, He was born in the parish of Coolcappa, and after his ordination was appointed curate of Crecora, and subsequently at St. Munchin's, Feenagh, and Patrickswell. Thirty-two years ago he was made parish priest of Fedamore by the late Bishop, Most Rev. Dr. O'Dwyer, and since then laboured in that parish with a zeal and assiduity that were beyond all praise. He was an exemplary priest and tool a deep interest in the temporal as well as the spiritual welfare of his bloc, by whom he was beloved and respected. Canon O'Kennedy was one of the first members of the revived Cathedral Chapter, and was a clergyman of rare literary attributes. He was the author of some very inspiring devotional works and a frequent contributor to eht "Irish Monthly" and "Ave Maria," as well as top American magazines. In everything that fell from his pen he showed a deep and wide knowledge of his subject, and as a temperance advocate Canon O'Kennedy was a foremost figure. In his early days he was identified with the agitation for teat right and numbered amongst his co-workers in that movement the late Miss Fanny Parnell. In his death the diocese of Limerick loses a well-known and respected clergyman, and the parishoners of Fedamore a steadfast friend and devoted pastor. The interment will take place after Office and Requiem High Mass at Fedamore Parish Church at 11 o'clock to-morrow (Saturday) morning.