Tributes paid to former President of Longford's St Mel’s College, late Fr Peter Brady
The death occurred on Thursday, November 30, 2023 of Very Rev Fr Peter Brady, Legan and formerly of Derryharrow, Longford, former President of St Mel’s College.
Predeceased by his parents Peter and Kate, brother Philip and by his sister Margaret McLoughlin, Fr Peter will be sadly missed and lovingly remembered by his family, brothers Packie, Eamon and Tommie, sisters-in-law, nieces, nephews, by the Bishop, Priests and Religious of the Diocese of Ardagh and Clonmacnois, relatives and friends.
Fr Peter came from Derryharrow and attended Melview NS along with St Mel's College and St Patrick's College, Maynooth, where he was ordained in 1967.
Fr Peter spent a year teaching in St Saran's College in Ferbane. In 1968 he was appointed teacher in St Mel's College, and subsequently became Dean of the College; a position he held for 13 years. In 1983 he was appointed President. During his time the number of pupils doubled and the college building was extended. There were numerous achievements in sport, including athletics, with Ray Flynn, Martin Flynn and John Fitzpatrick. Fr Peter was appointed parish priest of Legan in June 1990.
St Mel’s College posted a tribute to Fr Brady on their Facebook page. “He was a former St Mel's student and teacher and then became President of the College in 1983 until his retirement from teaching in 1989. He will be remembered for his commitment and dedication to the students he encountered and to the friendship he extended to those he worked alongside.
“During his time as President of the College he was influential in improving the boarders life by introducing a tuck shop, film club and enhancing sporting opportunities, particularly athletics, for all students. He was also a passionate teacher of English.
“Fr Brady was Dean of Boarders for many years and during this time he arranged many tours for them providing everlasting memories for so many students.
“Outside of school life he was a founding member of the Community Games movement in Longford and in more recent years a faithful friend, pastor and servant to the people of Leagan parish. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam.”
Legan based Cllr Paul Ross said, “We are all shocked and saddened to hear of the passing of Fr Peter Brady who has been parish priest in Legan and Ballycloughan for over 30 years . While retired from the role of Parish Priest the last few years he was still very active in the parish and said mass in Legan and Ballycloughan last weekend.”
Cllr Ross continued, “Fr Peter was a terrific worker for the Parish and many of us will have fond memories of major events in our lives which he was part of . He also was one of the founder members of The Aurora Club active age group who travelled the country in many outings . He was also the driving force behind the development of Millie’s cottage which is a wonderful heritage building in the village . His involvement in developing the outdoor church at Legan Rock with its beech tree exterior and mass rock is a great legacy to the Parish .
“He will be greatly missed and our deepest sympathies go to his extended family and all his parishioners.”
Fr Peter reposed at St Mary’s Church, Legan, on Saturday, December 2 and Requiem Mass took place on Sunday, December 3 followed by interment in Legan Cemetery.
Requiescat in peace.