Funeral of Mayo priest Fr. Frank Fahey who drove the restoration of Ballintubber Abbey

The funeral arrangements have been announced for Fr. Frank Fahey, Ballintubber, Claremorris, and formerly of Lavallyroe, Ballyhaunis.

He died peacefully yesterday surrounded by his family and close friends.

Tributes have described him as a man of tremendous vision, guiding the restoration of the 800-year-old Ballintubber Abbey and being a driving force behind the new visitor centre, which is now in development.

Fr. Frank is deeply regretted and sadly missed by his nieces Áine and Caitríona, nephews Donal and Frank, sister-in-law Ita, grandnieces and grandnephews, Archbishop Francis Duffy, Archbishop Emeritus Michael Neary, and his many priest colleagues in the Archdiocese of Tuam, the parishioners and wider community of Ballintubber, Carnacon and Killawalla, who will remember him with great affection.

Deepest sympathy is extended to the bereaved family on their loss.

He was predeceased by his parents, Martin and May, and brothers, Fr. Des and Jarlath.

Reposing at Ballintubber Abbey on Sunday from 4 to 7 p.m.

Funeral Mass on Monday at 12 noon in Ballintubber Abbey, followed by burial in the adjoining cemetery.

May his gentle soul rest in peace.

Many fond tributes are being paid to him on social media.

One stated: "Fr. Frank was a true inspiration to all those who had the privilege of meeting him, his dedication to the abbey in Ballintuber was extraordinary."

"He was a true man of God who was always there for his parishioners and their families in their time of need," another said.

A further tribute observed: "He was a great storyteller and full of fun. Fr. Frank has left a great legacy but will be a huge loss to all who knew him."