Beloved Miami Priest Msgr. John Delaney Passes Away in Ireland at 86

Lauderdale-by-the-Sea, USA - Msgr. John W. Delaney, a cherished figure in the Archdiocese of Miami, passed away on June 30, 2025, in Ireland at the venerable age of 86. Born on February 26, 1939, in County Mayo, Delaney was renowned not only for his dedication to the Catholic faith but also for his amiable nature. As a retired priest, he spent over four decades ministering in various capacities within the archdiocese. His journey began with ordination on June 22, 1964, at the esteemed All Hallows College in Dublin, marking the start of a lifelong vocation in service to the Church.

After arriving in South Florida in August 1964, Delaney’s early assignments included roles as parochial vicar at several parishes, including Immaculate Conception in Hialeah, St. Anastasia in Fort Pierce, and St. Edward in Palm Beach. He eventually became the administrator of Sacred Heart Parish in Lake Worth in June 1971 and served as pastor of Holy Family Church starting in 1974. Retirement in 2004 did not slow him down; he continued to assist at St. Helen Parish in Fort Lauderdale and Assumption Church, showing his unwavering commitment to parish life.

A Legacy of Formation

Notably, Msgr. Delaney played a significant role in the formation of clergy through his ties to All Hallows College. This institution, founded in 1840 by Father John Hand, was dedicated to preparing priests for missions in English-speaking countries, with a goal of sending skilled missionaries worldwide. Hand received approval from Pope Gregory XVI and fostered an environment where professors often worked pro bono, ensuring that students received free education and accommodation. Over its operational years, the college was instrumental in sending roughly 5,000 Irish priests abroad, contributing significantly to Catholic communities, particularly in the U.S., Australia, and Canada.

All Hallows College, as described by Catholic.com, had an academic program spanning seven years, encompassing general studies and in-depth theological education. It aimed to nurture well-rounded missionaries who could engage with the intricacies of modern life while being fueled by their faith. With its remarkable history, All Hallows has produced numerous influential figures, including bishops and archbishops, who serve in various regions.

A Time for Remembrance

Father Michael Greer, a recently retired pastor, fondly recalled Delaney’s love for liturgy and the organized nature of his services. His friendly demeanor and encouragement towards fellow priests left a lasting impact on many. Sadly, the closure of the seminary in 2016 was a significant emotional blow for Delaney, who worked tirelessly to keep it operational throughout his later years.

Funeral services for Msgr. Delaney will take place in his native Ireland. Family and friends will gather for viewing on July 4, followed by a memorial service on July 5 and a Funeral Mass on July 6 at Crossboyne Cemetery. For those unable to attend in person, a livestream of the Funeral Mass will be accessible via the Taugheen Community Facebook page, allowing anyone deeply touched by his life to join in remembrance.

This farewell is not only a loss for those who knew him but also a moment to celebrate the indelible mark he has made on the lives of many in the archdiocese and beyond. His legacy as a beacon of faith and community service will undoubtedly continue to inspire.