'Thurles Golf course was his favourite haunt up until a few weeks before his passing'

Last June, clergy, religious, family, close friends and parishioners joined Monsignor James Ryan at celebratory events in Cashel and Rosegreen to mark 70 years since his ordination to the priesthood.

On December 11, 2023, Monsignor James passed away peacefully at Tipperary University Hospital in the 97th year of his age.

A native of Newport, James (Seamus), brother to Jack and Maureen, was born to Jim and Margaret Ryan on July 13, 1927.

His early school going years were spent at Newport National School following which he attended secondary school at the CBS on Sexton Street in Limerick, cycling the lengthy distance to and fro no matter what the weather.

James, realising his vocation, continued his studies at St Patrick’s College, Maynooth and was ordained there on June 21, 1953.

Over the course of his studies in Maynooth and at the Pontifical Biblical Institute in Rome he obtained a Bachelor of Divinity Degree, Licentiate in Sacred Theology and in Sacred Scripture.

Between September 1955 and October 1956 he served as chaplain to the Sisters at the Presentation Convent in nearby Dundrum before entering St Patrick’s College, Thurles as Professor and Dean.

In January 1966 he was appointed secretary and chancellor to Archbishop Morris and Vice President of St Patrick’s College in 1972.

On the retirement of Dean Christopher Lee in 1988 Monsignor James arrived in Cashel where as PP and VG he would spend the next 15 years in faithful service to the communities of both the historic town and of Rosegreen where he was much loved and respected.

However he really never retired as he continued to serve as Associate Pastor, a service much on demand and appreciated, until close to the end of his life.

As Archbishop Kieran O’Reilly, Archbishop Emeritus Dermot Clifford, Rev. Enda Brady PP, clergy, religious, family, close friends and parishioners assembled on December 15 it was for Monsignor James’ requiem Mass and burial.

Choirs from the local schools performed beautifully bringing a sense of quiet and peace.

St Patrick’s Brass Band played on the previous evening for his arrival at the church.

There were many special memories.

The Monsignor who loved his cards; sports, especially hurling; his golf, Thurles Golf course was his favourite haunt up until a few weeks before his passing; who enjoyed a chat, a tipple with friends, had a vibrant sense of humor and a gentle manner; one who loved to travel, especially to the Holy Land and to visit family in the United States, was now at rest and many people, young and old, had a special fondness for him

His remains were gently placed in the chapel yard of S t John the Baptist Parish Church on Cashel’s Friar Street.