Bishop leads tributes to former Longford Church of Ireland Minister killed in Donegal crash

Tributes to the former Longford group of parishes Church of Ireland Minister killed in a car crash near Glenties on Wednesday have been led by the Bishop of Derry and Raphoe, Andrew Forster.

Rev Sheila Johnson died following a single-vehicle collision on the R262 Glenties-Frosses road at Tullynaglaggin at around 3.50pm on Wednesday last, October 29.

The funeral of Rev Johnson - who was married to her husband, Rev Canon Stanley Johnson for almost 60 years - took place yesterday (Monday, November 3) at 2pm in the St John’s Church, Ballymore.

Late of Rainbow's End, Carrickmacafferty, Derrybeg, Donegal, Rev Johnson, a mother-of-three in her 80s, will be cremated on Tuesday at the Lakelands Crematorium in Cavan. 

Her former parishioners in Longford have very fond memories of Rev Johnson's time with them and they have described as 'a great role model'. 

Rev Johnson (née Rowe), is survived by loving husband Stanley, son Timothy, daughters Melanie and Wendy, son-in-law Derrick, daughter-in-law Fiona, grandchildren Cian, Aoife, Roisin, Diarmuid, Caoimhe, Ruth, Katy and Thomas and great grandchildren. 

She is also survived by her sister Kathleen and brother Teddy, and extended families, while she was predeceased by her brothers Bertie and Bobby and sisters Doreen and Hilda.

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"I am deeply saddened by the news of Sheila's death," Bishop Forster said. "She served God with distinction during her ministry. 

“She had an adventurous spirit and was a friend to many, sharing her gifts of warmth and generosity, and lending those who needed it a listening and compassionate ear. 

“Sheila had a great love for her parishes but supremely for Stanley and their family. I ask you to remember them in your prayers."

Rev Sheila and Canon Stanley arrived in Donegal in 2001 after serving together in the Diocese of Kilmore, Elphin and Ardagh from 1989 to 2001. 

Canon Stanley was instituted as Rector of Clondehorkey and Mevagh, while Rev Sheila was appointed Priest-in-charge of the neighbouring Parish of Clondevaddock. They served in their Donegal parishes from 2001 until their retirement in 2009.

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Rev Johnson’s remains reposed at St John’s Church overnight on Sunday following viewing at  the Eternal Light Chapel of Rest, Mountain Top, Letterkenny, Co. Donegal on Sunday, November 2 from 3-5pm.

In November 2009, Rev Johnson launched her autobiography, 'Everything Except a Caravan'.

Glenties-based Sinn Féin Councillor Brian Carr conveyed his condolences following the tragic collision near Kilraine.

“My deepest sympathies to her family and friends during this very difficult time,” Councillor Carr said.

Her husband, also in his 80s, was taken to Letterkenny University Hospital for treatment of what are believed to be non-life threatening injuries.

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Garda Forensic Collision Investigators arrived on the scene on Thursday morning to carry out a technical examination and the road remained closed for a time.

Councillor Carr hailed the efforts of the emergency services and first responders.

He said: “A sincere well done to the emergency services, the Gardaí, fire service, and ambulance crews, for their fast and professional response.

“Thanks also to those who were first on the scene for their great efforts and support until the emergency services arrived.”

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Gardai are appealing for witnesses to the collision.

A spokesperson said: “Any road users who may have camera footage (including dash-cam) who were travelling in the area between 3:30pm and 4:00pm are asked to make this footage available to investigating Gardaí.

“Anyone with any information is asked to contact Ballyshannon Garda Station on 071 985 8530, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111, or any Garda Station.”