Clergy road victim to be laid to rest today

THE late Rev Shiela Johnson of Derrybeg will be laid to rest today.

Rev Johnson, who was in her 80s, tragically died in a single-vehicle collision near Glenties on Wednesday afternoon.

She was travelling with her husband of almost 60 years, Rev Canon Stanley Johnson, who was also injured in the collision.

He was treated for non-life threatening injuries at Letterkenny University Hospital.

Rev and Canon Johnson arrived in Donegal in 2001, having served together in the Diocese of Kilmore, Elphin and Ardagh from 1989 to 2001.

Canon Johnson was instituted as Rector of Clondehorkey and Mevagh, while Rev Johnson was appointed Priest-in-Charge of the neighbouring Parish of Clondevaddock.

They served in their Donegal parishes until their retirement in 2009 and had since made their home in Derrybeg.

The sudden passing of the mother of three has caused deep sadness, and tributes have poured in from the many communities she served.

Leading the tributes was the Bishop of Derry and Raphoe, Andrew Forster, who spoke of her warmth and generosity.

The late Rev Shiela Johnson.

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“I am deeply saddened by the news of Shiela’s death,” the Bishop 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 a listening and compassionate ear to those in need.

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

Creeslough Parish Priest, Fr John Joe Duffy, also paid tribute.

“I am deeply saddened and heartbroken at the passing of a much-beloved pastor, dear cherished friend, and caring motherly figure.

“Rev Shiela was someone who made such a positive contribution to my life and the lives of so many,” he shared.

Rev Johnson is deeply missed by her 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, as well as her great-grandchildren.

She is also mourned by her sister Kathleen, her brother Teddy and her extended family.

She was predeceased by her brothers Bertie and Bobby, and sisters Doreen and Hilda.

Rev Shiela Johnson’s funeral service will be held at Ballymore Parish Church today at 2pm, followed by cremation at Lakelands Crematorium in Cavan tomorrow.

Meanwhile, Gardaí are appealing for witnesses to the single-vehicle collision on the R262 at Tullynaglaggin, which occurred around 3.50pm on Wednesday, October 29.