Bishop Donal McKeown announces death of Bishop Francis Lagan RIP

09 Jun 2020

The Diocese of Derry regrets to announce the death of Bishop Francis Lagan, who had served as Auxiliary Bishop in the Diocese of Derry (1988-2010). He had served as a gentle pastor for almost 60 years.  We offer condolences to his extended family and close friends. May he rest in peace.

Donal McKeown
Bishop of Derry

ENDS

Notes for Editors

Bishop Francis Lagan was born in Maghera in 1934. After studies in St Patrick’s College, Maynooth, he was ordained on June 19th, 1960. He worked for 16 years in teaching (Derry and Carndonagh), and then served as a curate in Strabane and then as Administrator of St Mary’s Creggan. In 1988 he was appointed Auxiliary Bishop in the Diocese of Derry, a post he held until he retired in May 2010.

Much of his ministry was carried out in difficult times during the Troubles. He was a man of great simplicity, very well liked both by parishioners and by his fellow clergy. In recent years he had to cope with illness. This he bore with great dignity and patience. We commend his gentle soul to God.

His funeral Mass will be celebrated in the Church of the Immaculate Conception, Strabane, in full accordance with current government regulations. He will be buried at St Patrick’s Church, Maghera.

He is survived by his brother Brian and his sisters Tilly (McVey) and Mary (Cassidy) and a large extended family circle.

For media contact: Catholic Communications Office Maynooth: Martin Long +353 (0) 86 172 7678 and Brenda Drumm +353 (0) 87 310 4444.