Fr. Paddy, who died suddenly on Monday in hospital, was laid to rest in his native Culdaff in Inishowen, Donegal today following Requiem Mass at the same Holy Family Church, Ballymagroarty in Derry where he had previously served and with which he will forever be associated.
Relatives, friends and parishioners of the charismatic priest lined the streets as his coffin arrived, with schoolchildren and adults forming a guard of honour and parishioners clapping as the cortege passed by.
A tribute left outside the parochial house summed up the feelings of many today with its simple message: ‘R.I.P. The People’s Priest’.
9. DER- FUNERAL OF FR PADDY OKANE
Local people applaud the hearse carrying the remains of Fr Paddy OKane as it leaves Holy Family Church on Thursday afternoon. Photograph: George Sweeney / Derry Journal. DER2213GS 043
11. DER- FUNERAL OF FR PADDY OKANE
A memorial to Fr Paddy OKane, placed outside Holy Family Church by a parishioner. Photograph: George Sweeney / Derry Journal. DER2213GS 044