Appreciation: Late Longford priest Fr Seamus Fullam was a kind humble man

Father Seamus Fullam was born into a farming family in the townland of Castlenugent in the parish of Abbeylara, Co Longford in 1932.

Around 1950 he came to London working like many of his compatriots on building sites rebuilding Britain after the devastation of World War Two.

After some years he felt called to the priesthood and was accepted for formation at Campion House Osterley before finishing his studies with the Franciscans in Southend.

Ordained in 1961 as a priest of Westminster diocese Father Fullam served in several parishes in West and Northwest London including St Aiden's, East Acton, St Patrick's, West Hendon and St Margaret Clitherow, Grahame Park.

Finally following a short appointment at St Paul's Chestnut Father Fullam retired from full-time ministry and returned to Granard where he lived quietly while sometimes returning to London to provide holiday cover for some of his old colleagues. Until failing health prevented it he also served as a chaplain in Laurel Lodge Nursing Home.

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Father Fullam will be remembered as a kind humble man with a deep faith who saw good in everyone yet was aware of people's difficulties and frailties.

Father Fullam was involved with the Longford Association in London for many years, often attending meetings where his advice and common sense proved invaluable so much so that in time he became our Patron.

He especially enjoyed our Annual dinner dances where he delighted in meeting fellow Longfordians and their families even though he would invariably have to leave early because of his parish duties the next morning.

On the occasion of his Golden Jubilee in 2011 he was invited to lunch with the Cardinal at Archbishop's House and to a garden party at Buckingham Palace hosted by her late Majesty.

When asked which event he enjoyed the most he remarked that only soft drinks were served at the garden party. Yes he also had a wonderful sense of humour. I was privileged to have known him. May his gentle soul rest in peace.

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The Very Rev. Seamus (James) Fullam, Abbeylara Road, Granard, Longford and PP Emeritus of the Dioceses of Westminster, London, England died peacefully in the loving care of the staff of Our Lady’s Manor Nursing Home, Edgeworthstown on Sunday, February 19, 2023.

He was predeceased by his parents Michael and Margaret, his uncle Fr James and sisters Margaret and Ann. Deeply regretted by the Bishop of Westminster and fellow Clergy and Religious, nephew Javid, cousins and his carer and friend Evelyn.

- Michael N McCann (Longford Association in London)