Tributes flood in after sad death of former Bishop of Waterford

Tributes have been paid this week after the said passing of Bishop Emeritus of Waterford and Lismore, William Lee.

Current Bishop of Waterford and Lismore, Alphonsus Cullinan, led tributes upon the death of Bishop Lee, who was a Tipperary native.

Bishop Cullinane said: "It is with great sadness and profound respect that I announce the passing of our beloved predecessor, Bishop William Lee, who died this morning, 5 January. 

"Bishop Lee dedicated his life to serving the Catholic Church and the people of the Diocese of Waterford and Lismore with firm commitment and passion. As we mourn his loss, we ask for your prayers for the repose of his soul.

"From 1993 until his retirement in 2013, Bishop Lee served as the Bishop of Waterford and Lismore with unwavering dedication and compassion.

"He worked tirelessly to ensure that the spiritual needs of the faithful were met and that the Church continued to be a beacon of hope and guidance for all.  His commitment to the people of this Diocese, his steadfast love for the Church and his wisdom and friendship will be sorely missed."

Born in Newport, Co Tipperary, 1941, Bishop Lee was ordained to the priesthood in 1966, and later earned a Doctorate in Canon Law and served as President of Saint Patrick’s College, Thurles, before being appointed as Bishop of Waterford and Lismore by Pope Saint John Paul II in 1993.

Bishop Lee also served as Secretary to the Irish Episcopal Conference for 15 years, from 1998 until 2013.

"We ask for your prayers for the repose of his soul, and we give thanks for his many years of service to the Church and the people he served. May he rest in peace," Bishop Cullinane concluded.