Requiem Mass for Father Dermott Donnelly, brother of TV star Dec

Requiem Mass for Father Dermott Donnelly, brother of TV star Dec

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Requiem Mass will be said for Father Dermott Donnelly, the brother of TV star December.

The popular priest, who recently celebrated 30 years of service in the Catholic Church, died in hospital earlier this month after falling seriously ill.

After the tragedy, Declan Donnelly said he was “heartbroken,” adding, “We are all beyond devastated.”

His TV sidekick Ant McPartlin added: “Fr. Dermott, you were the kindest, wisest man I knew. Rest in peace my friend. You will never be forgotten.

“My thoughts, prayers and love are with your wonderful family.

“The world has lost a special man.”

The Requiem Mass was celebrated in St. Mary’s Cathedral, Newcastleon Friday afternoon.

His body was taken to St Michael’s Church in the West End of the city on Thursday evenings.

The Donnellys – Dermott, Dec, Martin, Eamonn, Camelia, Patricia and Moira – grew up in Cruddas Park and attended St Michael’s as they grew up.

It was the church where Dec married Ali Astall in 2015, led by his brother Dermott.

The number of mourners expected in the cathedral was so great that the mass was broadcast live to St Michael’s Church.

The pastor, who was 55 years old, was best known for his work with young people and youth work. He was a member of the clergy of St Joseph’s Church in Stanley, County Durham.

Hexham and Newcastle Bishop Robert Byrne said: “He really lived his faith and gave so much to others as a result.

“It is with great gratitude that we will remember him and all that he has selflessly given.”

During his career, Fr Dermott was a supporter of the charity The Catholic Agency for Overseas Development (Cafod).

The head of education, Monica Conmee, said he had been a “great friend of Cafod”, adding: “Fr. light of God in their own lives and inspires them to share it with others.”

In 2014, Fr Dermott appeared on Songs Of Praise alongside CBBC’s Hacker T Dog to answer questions about the church that CBBC viewers had sent.

In April he visited Downing Street and joined other religious leaders who prayed for peace.