The much-loved brother of Geordie TV star Declan Donnelly has been remembered as a 'true inspiration' following his sad death.
Father Dermott Donnelly, who served with the Diocese of Hexham and Newcastle, sadly died in hospital on Friday, July 8, after a serious illness. The 55-year-old is understood to have been a Catholic Priest for 30 years and was a well-known figure in communities across the North East.
His "heartbroken" brother, Declan Donnelly, confirmed the sad news on Twitter, saying he “died peacefully” in hospital on Friday afternoon.
READ MORE: Sadness as Dec's brother Father Dermott Donnelly dies aged 55 following serious illness
The TV presenter, 46, wrote: “I am heartbroken to tell you that my darling brother Fr Dermott, sadly passed away this afternoon. We are all beyond devastated. Thank you for your messages of sympathy and support, they are appreciated.”
Fr Dermott's family has asked for privacy as they come to terms with their loss. A spokesman for Dec told the PA news agency: “It is with great sadness that we confirm the death of Fr Dermott Donnelly who died peacefully this afternoon in hospital surrounded by his family and close friends. We ask for the utmost privacy for the Donnelly family at this difficult time.”
Dermott was raised on Newcastle's Cruddas Park estate as one of seven children, brothers - Declan, Martin and Eamonn - and three sisters - Camelia, Patricia and Moira. In 2015 Fr Dermott officiated at the wedding of his famous brother to Ali Astall in Newcastle in a ceremony attended by a number of celebrities.
Following the sad news, tributes to Fr Dermott have poured in from churches across the North East and those who knew him well for his work in the community.
Richard Holden, MP for North West Durham, said: "Very sad news that Fr Dermott Donnelly has passed away today.
"On my visit just a week ago he was telling me how much he’s enjoyed his 30th anniversary of his ordination party just the week before. He will be missed by so many in the towns and villages of North West Durham and beyond. May he rest in peace."
Tudhoe St Charles RC Church in Spennymoor called Fr Dermott an 'inspiration' and said he leaves behind a 'massive legacy.'
Paying tribute to him the church said: "We are deeply shocked and saddened to hear of Fr Dermott’s passing today. He was a true inspiration to us all and he leaves a massive legacy for the diocese.
"Our prayers go out to his family, friends and to the YMT team. May his soul rest in peace, Amen."
St Charles RC Church Gosforth called Fr Dermott a 'wonderful man' who dedicated his life to the church.
The church said: "Please pray for Fr Dermott Donnelly who has returned back to the Father’s house this afternoon. Fr Dermott was a wonderful man and priest who dedicated his life to the mission of the church.
"May the choir of angels come to greet you, may they speed you to paradise. May the Lord enfold you in His mercy, may you find eternal life."
Stanley, Dipton and Byermoor Catholic Parishes urged the community to remember Fr Dermott in their prayers.
"It is with deep sadness that we announce the death of Father Dermott Donnelly," they said.
"Please remember Father Dermott in your prayers and pray for the repose of his soul."
St Aidan's Catholic Church, Ashington, and Wallsend Catholic Churches said Fr Dermott was well known for his work with the young people of the diocese. They said: "Please pray for the repose of the soul of Father Dermott Donnelly who died this afternoon. We pray for his mother and his family at this time.
"Father Dermott was parish priest of Stanley, Byermoor and Dipton. He is also well-known for his work with the Young People of the diocese through YMT. May he rest in peace."
READ NEXT:
-
Prayers for Dec's brother Father Dermott Donnelly who is 'seriously ill in hospital'
-
Dec pays tribute to his 'darling brother' Father Dermott Donnelly who has died aged 55
- Popular Newcastle bar and restaurant Horticulture announces name of new sister venue following council approval
-
'He's like a meme' - Newcastle's delight after Boris Johnson resigns calling it 'long overdue'
-
See inside the Sunderland CCTV centre that's watching over your every move
