The death has occurred of Canon Reuben Butler, Retired Parish Priest of Newmarket on Fergus, Co. Clare.
Born on April 20th 1931 Canon Reuben was a native of Templederry, Co Tipperary and was a priest of the Diocese of Killaloe for 63 years. He was a past pupil of St Flannan’s College, Ennis. He studied for the priesthood at St Patrick’s College, Maynooth where he was ordained on June 17th 1956.
After ordination, he returned to Maynooth for one year to complete the H. Dip in Education and was then appointed for one year to St Mary’s College, Galway. He returned to the Diocese in 1958 and was appointed as teacher in St Flannan’s College, Ennis. He became Career Guidance teacher there in 1969 and in 1974 was appointed Vice President. He was appointed President of St Flannan’s in July 1982.
In July 1989, Reuben was appointed Parish Priest of Newmarket on Fergus, Co. Clare and in February 1992 he was appointed a Canon of the Cathedral Chapter. He retired as Parish Priest in July 2006 and was appointed A.P to Newmarket on Fergus where he continued to minister until this year.
Canon Reuben Butler died on Thursday, April 25th 2019 in Carrigoran Nursing Home, Newmarket on Fergus, Co. Clare.
Founding Chief Executive of Clare FM Caimin Jones said: “Canon Reuben Butler made an important contribution to religious broadcasting. In the earlier years of Clare FM, he led a small dedicated team of volunteers who researched and produced weekend religious programming.
A fine rich voice and the ability to craft a good script made Reuben a natural for radio. His “Thought for the Day” broadcasts were always well considered, beautifully delivered, often with a light humorous touch.
His amiable personality and inherent good nature made him a popular and respected figure around the station. May he rest in peace,” Mr Jones added.
Suaimhneas síoraí tabhair dó a Thiarna, agus go lonraí solas suthain air.
A thorough gentleman! May his noble soul rest in peace!🙏 https://t.co/fKadpTASOn
— + Fintan Monahan (@BishopFintan) April 26, 2019
Funeral Arrangements for the late Canon Butler
Reposing in Our Lady of the Rosary Church, Newmarket on Fergus, Co. Clare on Saturday evening, April 27th 2019 from 4.00 to 8.00 pm with prayers at 8.00 pm. Funeral Mass in Our Lady of the Rosary Church, Newmarket on Fergus on Sunday, April 28th at 3.30 pm followed by burial in Fenloe Cemetery, Newmarket on Fergus Co. Clare.