Fr Austin O’Neill’s body was received into St Aelred’s Church by Canon Jerry Twomey, Episcopal Vicar for the Central Vicariate and Austin’s successor as parish priest, on the evening of 7 May 2009 followed by Mass attended by many who could not be present the following day.

Bishop Drainey was the principal concelebrant at the funeral Mass on 8 May when he was joined by over 50 Diocesan priests. Austin’s brother, John, his sister-in-law, Agnes, and his four nephews led the family mourners. The church was full to overflowing, recognising Fr Austin’s 21 years as parish priest.

Bishop Terry in welcoming everybody to the Mass thanked John and all the family for the gift of Austin to the Diocese and for his 48 years’ service to the people. Two nephews read the lessons, and Brendan Farrell, who had helped and supported Austin in his time at St Aelred’s and throughout his retirement, led the prayers of Intercession.

Fr Pat Hartnett preached the homily which identified many of Fr Austin’s qualities but drew laughter when he described Austin’s driving.

Austin O’Neill paid a brief tribute to his uncle, and thanked the people of St Aelred’s for all they had done for his uncle.

After the commendation, the coffin left the church to the hymn ‘O Christ the same through all our story’s pages’ sung to the tune of the Derry Air.

Austin’s body was transferred to Ireland, and his funeral Mass was held on 9 May in the parish church at Ballybricken where he had been baptised, made his first communion and was confirmed. Canon Pat Harney and Fr Dan Cahill represented Bishop Drainey and the Diocese. After Mass, he was buried in the family plot in Limerick City.

May he rest in peace.