Galway mourns devoted and long-serving priest and community member

Galway mourns devoted and long-serving priest and community member Cathedral of Our Lady Assumed into Heaven and St Nicholas. Photo: Wikipedia

Parishioners and community members are paying respects online for beloved Galway priest Fr Martin McNamara, who died on May 1.

Fr McNamara was ordained in 1962, and served in various parishes until settling as parish priest in Kiltullagh, Killimordaly and Clooncagh from 1986 to 2022. Killimordaly Hurling Club issued a statement on Facebook, where they shared the deep devotion Fr McNamara had to the club.

“His love for our community extended deeply into Killimordaly GAA, where he served not just as a supporter, but as a coach, chairperson, and hurling board delegate. He understood the heartbeat of the parish and knew that sport, like faith, brings people together. He took pride in every achievement, big or small, and encouraged countless young people along the way,” read the statement.

Fr McNamara was also a proud supporter and founding club member of the Kiltulla and District Vintage Club. The club honoured him with photos and a statement online, highlighting his enthusiasm and innovation.

The priest was reposed in Kiltullagh Parish Hall on May 3 and buried in the grounds of the Church of Sts Peter and Paul on May 4.