DONEGAL Deputy Pat ‘the Cope’ Gallagher has paid tribute to long-serving Donegal priest, Fr Eddie Gallagher, describing him as a once in a lifetime priest.

Last month, a packed congregation gathered in St Bridget’s Church, Leitir, to celebrate Fr Eddie’s retirement – the large attendance reflecting the deep affection and admiration felt for the Glenfin native from across the diocese and beyond.

Fr Eddie was ordained to the priesthood on June 12, 1977 in the Church of Our Lady of Perpetual Help, Glenfin, by Bishop Anthony McFeely.

He would go on to serve in seven parishes across the Diocese of Raphoe including Gaoth Dobhair, Tory Island, Dungloe, Glencolmcille, Leitir (Lettermacaward), Carrick and Kilcar, making many friends along the way, including Deputy Gallagher.

Deputy Pat ‘The Cope’ Gallagher and Fr Eddie Gallagher.

“He is the man you and all of us would turn to when in need of support and help,” Deputy Gallagher said.

“No better person to have by your side when you or your family are experiencing illness or bereavement – his constant and total devotion to helping people is legendary. He on many occasions got a call from myself asking for guidance.

“There was never such a thing as out of hours or holidays for Fr Eddie – his vocation was total and complete.”

Fr Eddie’s legacy, Deputy Gallagher added, is to be seen in every parish he served.

“The most he pushed for in life was the development of our national schools

“I recall a funeral I attended in Carrick in 2008. Before I knew it I was in Fr Eddie’s kitchen sorting out a two room extension and yes – delivered within months.

“In our lifetimes we are lucky to have had people such as Fr Eddie, the likes of whom make real and positive change, improve people’s lives, leave better, stronger communities and always strengthen our faiths in doing so.

“We wish Fr Eddie a long and happy retirement. He has deserved his days of rest, content knowing he has done his best.”