Father Sean, born on October 6, 1946, in the serene town of Collooney, Sligo, Ireland, graced this world with his presence. His journey of education began in 1951 at the Marist school in his beloved hometown, and in 1952, he continued his studies at the public school in Collooney until 1959.
At the tender age of 12, Father Sean embarked on a new chapter of his life, entering the hallowed halls of the apostolic college Santa Rita de Casia, under the guidance of the Augustinian Recollects in Honiton, Devon, England. Seeking further enlightenment, he pursued his secondary education and philosophy studies at the apostolic college San Nicolás de Tolentino in Fuenterrabía, Guipúzcoa, Spain. On September 5, 1965, his dedication to the Augustinian Recollects led him to the doors of the novitiate in Monteagudo, Navarra, Spain.
It was there that he made his simple profession on September 6, 1966. Continuing his theological journey, Father Sean studied theology in Marcilla, Navarra, from 1966 to 1970. The culmination of his commitment to his faith arrived on September 6, 1968, as he made his solemn profession in Marcilla.
Furthermore, by the hands of Monsignor Francisco Javier Ochoa, Father Sean received the order of the diaconate on March 19, 1970, in Marcilla.
The pinnacle of his spiritual journey arrived on July 12, 1970, when Monsignor James Fergus, the bishop of the diocese of Achonry, Ireland, ordained Father Sean as a priest in his hometown of Collooney.
Father Sean’s thirst for knowledge led him to the National University of Maynooth in Dublin, Ireland, from 1970 to 1975. There, he diligently pursued his studies, obtaining degrees in Bachelor of Arts (Sociology and History) and Licentiate in Theology.
His pastoral service took him to England, where he dedicated himself to the spiritual well-being of the community. In 1975, he was appointed as the director of the Saint Rita’s Centre in Honiton, Devon, and the following year, he assumed the role of prior.
From 1979 to 1985, he served as prior and parish priest in Ivybridge, Devon. Continuing his devoted service, Father Sean held the position of vicar provincial of the Vicariate of England and was responsible for vocations from 1985 to 1991, residing in the house of Cheniston Gardens, London.
From 1991 to 2000, he embraced the role of prior and parish priest of the English Martyrs parish in Wembley, London. His journey continued as he assumed the positions of prior and director of vocations and training at the Cheniston Gardens house in London from 2000 to 2003.
In 2003, he became prior and parish priest of the Holy Souls parish in Kensal, London, until his illness struck and was assigned as a resident to the house in Honiton.
In 2009, after regaining his health, he returned to his prior and parish priest role in Ivybridge, Devon. Finally, in September 2015, he found solace as a resident in the house in Honiton, where he remained until his passing on April 24, 2024.
Father Sean, known for his simplicity, wisdom, kindness, and affection, touched the lives of those around him with grace. His gentle demeanour, laced with humour, radiated inner serenity, often accompanied by a warm smile. He embraced the beauty of life and found joy in its simplicity.
An exceptional scholar, Father Sean's erudition shone through his numerous books, including the esteemed history of the Augustinian Recollects in England. In his pastoral work, he held a special place in his heart for the youth and dedicated himself to vocational pastoral care.
Deeply rooted in faith and devotion to the Order, Father Sean cherished the bonds of community life and fostered a warm relationship with his beloved family. He remained steadfast in his commitment to prayer and held a profound love for the Eucharist.
With remarkable fortitude and unwavering acceptance, Father Sean confronted his illness, gracefully embracing each challenge and limitation without uttering a word of complaint.
Deeply grateful for the support and aid he received in his daily endeavours, he expressed sincere and heartfelt appreciation for every act of kindness bestowed upon him.
As we bid farewell to Father Sean, we beseech God, the giver of life, who witnessed his unwavering commitment to religious life and his resolute spirit during his final days, to grant him eternal life in His Kingdom of boundless love.