Tributes have been paid to an ‘extraordinary’ Tyrone Parish Priest and ‘proud Dungiven man,’ who has sadly passed away.

Drumragh Parish in Omagh announced the death of their PP Fr Eugene Hasson, with ‘sadness and a deep sense of loss’.

In a statement, they added: “A proud Dungiven man, Fr Hasson also spoke often of his Tyrone roots and in particular of his grandmother’s influence on his visits to her in Plumbridge.

"His first appointment on his ordination in 1980 was to the parish of Drumragh and it was in Drumragh that he spent his last years since 2016. Other than a brief appointment to Lavey, Fr Hasson’s ministry didn’t stray often from the Omagh area with appointments in Greencastle and Cappagh parishes including as chaplain to the hospital.

The late Fr Eugene Hasson. Photo: Drumragh Parish.

placeholder image — The late Fr Eugene Hasson. Photo: Drumragh Parish.

“Fr Hasson fulfilled a long-held wish on the occasion of his 70th birthday to celebrate Mass on the spot where the three parishes of Drumragh, Beragh and Fintona meet, which also marks the point at which the three dioceses of Derry, Armagh and Clogher meet. Sadly, not many weeks after that, we learned of Fr Hasson’s illness.”

SDLP West Tyrone MLA Daniel McCrossan also paid tribute to Fr Eugene Hasson, who passed away on Monday.

"I am deeply saddened by the passing of Fr Eugene Hasson, a priest whose life was defined by extraordinary service, selflessness and an unwavering commitment to the people of Omagh and the wider community.

"This year, Fr Eugene would have marked 46 years in the priesthood, a lifetime dedicated to walking alongside people through moments of joy, sorrow and profound hardship. He was far more than a parish priest. He was a source of comfort, strength and reassurance to countless families, particularly during some of the most difficult chapters in Omagh’s history.

"Fr Eugene’s ministry was rooted in compassion and humility. He had a rare ability to be present when people needed him most, offering support without judgement and leadership without seeking recognition. His words at the 25th anniversary of the Omagh Bomb captured not only the resilience of the community he served, but the values he lived by unity, dignity and hope in the face of unimaginable loss.

"Throughout decades of service, Fr Eugene earned the deep respect and affection of all who knew him. His legacy is one of quiet courage, tireless dedication and a profound belief in the power of community to heal and endure.

"My thoughts and sympathies are with Fr Eugene’s family, his fellow clergy, parishioners and all those whose lives were touched by his kindness and care. He will be remembered with gratitude and held always in the hearts of the community he served so faithfully."

Funeral arrangements for Fr Hasson are as follows:

This evening, Tuesday, January 13

Transfer to Saint Patrick’s Church Dungiven for

Reception at 6pm

Mass at 7.30pm

Rosary & Night Prayer at 9.45pm

Wednesday, January 14

Mass at 12noon

Transfer to Sacred Heart Church Omagh via Greencastle

Reception at 3pm

Rosary at 6.45pm

Mass at 7.30pm