Fr Neal Carlin.
He passed away peacefully today at the nursing unit at Buncrana Community Hospital.
He was aged 81.
A native of Fahan, he was one of life’s true gentlemen and will be forever remembered for the founding of White Oaks Rehabilitation Centre, near Bridgend.
He founded the Columba Community just over 40 years ago, and together they also established St Anthony’s Retreat Centre near Bridgend, the IOSAS Centre organic gardens and the Celtic Prayer Garden near Muff.
Predeceased by his mother May, father Neal and sister Una, he is survived by brothers Joe, James, Aidan, Desmond, Brendan and sisters Christine (South Africa) and Angela.
Paying tribute to the late Fr Carlin, a spokesperson for the Derry Diocese said: “It is with great sadness that we inform you that the death has taken place of Fr Neal Carlin.
“Fr Neal founded the Columba Community and established St Anthony’s Retreat Centre near Bridgend, White Oaks Rehabilitation Centre, Columba House (Queen Street), the IOSAS Centre organic gardens and the Celtic Prayer Garden near Muff.
“He has touched many lives in the North West and beyond. Eternal rest grant unto them, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon them. May the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace. Amen.”
Funeral arrangements have yet to be published.
