The 55-year-old’s sudden death has prompted an outpouring of tributes
Funeral details have been announced for the a Co Tyrone-born priest who died suddenly, less than two weeks after taking up a new role in Co Louth.
Fr Mark O’Hagan, originally from Coalisland, had spent more than two decades serving the Dundalk community before becoming parish priest of Ardee, Collon and Ballapousta in Co Louth earlier this month.
The 55-year-old’s sudden death was announced by both parishes on Friday, prompting an outpouring of tributes from parishioners and organisations in the area. He had only taken up his new position on September 6, having celebrated his first Mass at the Church of Mary Immaculate in Collon just last Sunday.
St Patrick’s Parish in Dundalk said it was “saddened to share the news of the sudden death of our previous parish priest”.
Fr Mark had served in Dundalk since shortly after his ordination, working as curate, administrator and parish priest during his 22 years in the town.
His death notice described him as the beloved son of Irene and the late Joe, cherished brother of Dwyer (Majella), Sinead (Steven) and John (Sonia), much loved uncle to Caoilean, Connor, Caoimhín, Coleen, Dara, Kate, Emily-Rose, Joseph, Rory and Eathan and granduncle to Ada and Donnchadh.
It added that his death is deeply regretted by his loving family circle, Archbishop Eamon Martin DD, Cardinal Seán Brady JCD, Bishop Michael Router DD, the clergy and religious of the Archdiocese of Armagh, his parishioners, former parishioners and many friends.
On Saturday, September 19 there will be a public visitation from 5pm and lying in repose for Mass at 6.30pm in the Church of the Nativity of Our Lady, Ardee. Arrival at 9.30pm for Night Prayer in St. Patrick’s Church, Dundalk.
On Sunday, September 20, his remains will be lying in repose for the 9am and 11am Masses in St. Patrick’s Church, Dundalk, with removal following the 11am Mass to repose at Fr. Mark’s family home, Lisnastrane Park, Coalisland BT71 4PW.
On Monday, September 21, Requiem Mass will be held in Holy Family Church, Coalisland at 2pm. Burial afterwards in the cemetery adjacent to St. Mary and St. Joseph’s Church, Coalisland.
Speaking to the Dundalk Argus before leaving St Patrick’s at the end of August, Fr Mark reflected on the difficulty of departing a community where he had spent his entire priestly ministry.
“It’s with a very heavy heart that I am leaving, but that is part of the priesthood. My whole ministry has been in Dundalk, so it will be strange going somewhere else.”
He had previously described his departure as emotional, while acknowledging that moving between parishes was part of his vocation.
“I am leaving with a heavy heart…my whole ministry has been in Dundalk,” he told the local newspaper.
His new parishes also confirmed his death in a statement, saying they were “with deep sadness” sharing the news of the “unexpected death this morning of our parish priest”.
“We mourn such a profound loss and especially remember Fr. Mark’s family in our prayers in these days.”
One parishioner recalled his first Mass in Collon last Sunday, saying he had spoken enthusiastically about his plans for the coming decade before eventually retiring.
Tributes have also been paid by the Order of Malta Ireland’s Dundalk Ambulance Corps, which said Fr Mark had made a lasting impact during his years serving the community.
“During his many years of service, he touched the lives of countless people through his kindness, dedication and commitment to his parish community.”
Dundalk South councillor Sionainn McCann also paid tribute to the priest, remembering his connection to Dundalk and his personality.
“Terrible news. Fr. Mark originally from Coalisland always had a smile and joke ready. He cared deeply about the town and will be sorely missed.”
Before entering the priesthood, Fr Mark studied business and worked at Belfast’s Europa Hotel before deciding to pursue his vocation.
Reflecting on his years in Dundalk in his interview with the Argus, he said his approach to priesthood had always centred on the community he served.
“My ministry has always been one of serving the people.”
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