Residents of Ballyadams were shocked and saddened at the news of former parish priest Fr Lawrence Fleming passed away over the weekend. Fr lar, as he was affectionately known, offered up 23 years of service to the parish of Ballyadams between 1977 and 2000.

Described by colleagues and members of the congregation as a very kind and popular figure in the community, Fr Fleming was 84 years of age when he passed away. Born in Ardattin, Co. Carlow, he was first ordained on 22 June 1952 and was one year short of celebrating his diamond anniversary in the priesthood.

His first post was serving in Clonmore, Carlow as parish priest for four years. In 1956, to took up his first role as parishioner in Laois, serving in Clonaslee for seven years, forming strong ties which lasted up until his death.

He then served as an army chaplain in the Curragh, Kildare for 11 years, before taking up residency in Ballyadams. His term in Ballyadams was the longest he stayed in any parish, and he is still fondly remembered by locals.

Fr Lar attended primary school in Ardattin NS, before splitting his secondary school education between the Christian Brothers in Carlow and Knockbeg College. To pursue his life in the priesthood, he then went to Maynooth College.

Fr Fleming remained very active in his retirement since leaving Ballyadams, offering supply all around Carlow, often in the Sacred Heart Church and in the Sue Ryder Home. In his day, Fr Lar was also a fine footballer with Kilbride, and remained an avid GAA supporter throughout his lifetime.

He is survived by his four brothers and four sisters. His funeral Mass took place in St Joseph's Church, Ballyadams, followed by his burial in St Joseph's Cemetery.

Courtesy of the Carlow Nationalist
12 July 2011 Tweet

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