Former IRA member Pearse McAuley, who was imprisoned for killing Detective Garda Jerry McCabe and assaulting his former wife Pauline Tully, was buried in Strabane Cemetery following a funeral mass at the Church of the Immaculate Conception. McAuley's funeral took place on March 25, 2024, and was attended by mourners who were told during the eulogy that McAuley was an educator, philosopher, and a deeply sincere man of hope [e26ace91].
Pearse McAuley had a troubled past, having escaped from Brixton Prison in 1991 and being a member of an IRA gang that attempted an armed robbery in Adare in 1996, resulting in the killing of Detective Garda McCabe. He was sentenced to 14 years in prison for manslaughter and was released in 2009. In 2015, McAuley was sentenced to 12 years for stabbing his estranged wife, Pauline Tully, and was released from prison in 2022 [e26ace91].
Despite his controversial history, mourners at McAuley's funeral remembered him as an educator and philosopher, highlighting his intellectual pursuits and his capacity for hope. McAuley is survived by his sons, partner, and siblings [e26ace91].
Neil McCormick, aged 67, passed away on May 7, 2024. He was the son of Anne and Bernard McCormick and brother of Bernie McCormick. Neil dedicated his life to service in the Archdiocese of Detroit, working for the Catholic Youth Organization (CYO) and coordinating Mass for Shut-Ins for almost 50 years. The funeral will be held on May 25 at St. Blase Church in Sterling Heights. Condolences can be sent to his family care of St. Blase Church [06fc9b88].
In other news, Sean Maguire, a resident of Middlesex, England and formerly of Mullaghmore, Drumreilly, Co Leitrim, passed away on April 16 after a long illness. He is survived by his son Richard, daughter Sinead, and grandchildren Darcey, Ethan, and Cayden. Sean's funeral will be held on May 15 in Ruislip, Middlesex, followed by cremation. A memorial Mass will also be held on May 24 in Drumreilly, Co Leitrim, with interment of ashes in the adjoining cemetery. Donations in Sean's memory can be made to The Alzheimer's Society UK or Alzheimer's Ireland [3246c328].
Fr. Seán Horgan celebrated his 80th birthday with family and friends at the River Island Hotel in Castleisland. He has been an active member of the clergy in the Castleisland parish for the past decade and a half. Fr. Sean is a highly respected member of the clergy and community, known for his devotion to God and his sense of humor. He served in Blackburn, UK from the 1960s until his retirement in 2010. He moved back to Farranfore and quickly established himself in the community. The celebration was organized by a family member who described Fr. Sean as a wonderful family man and a great character. The article includes a photograph of Fr. Seán Horgan and his family and friends at the celebration. [13d61176]