The Very Rev. Fr. Brendan Scully O.F.M. was a kind and humble Franciscan priest, a gifted sportsman, and a much-loved youth worker remembered for his quiet charitable works. Known for his good cheer, humility, and ability to connect with people, he was considered a true son of St Francis of Assisi.
Born in Dublin in 1943 to Offaly parents, Fr. Brendan attended St Vincent’s CBC, Glasnevin, and went on to play Minor Hurling and Football for Dublin, winning a Leinster title in 1961 before joining the Franciscans just days later. He later played senior football with Limerick, securing county championships, while also playing rugby with Shannon and Thomond, soccer with Shelbourne A.F.C., and excelling in many other sports including cricket, basketball, and golf.
Ordained in 1969, his ministry brought him across Ireland and abroad. He is remembered for his compassion in Limerick and Bray, where his leadership during the tragic 1989 St Stephen’s Day fire left a lasting mark on the community.
Fr. Brendan had strong ties to Franciscan College Gormanston, where he ministered on a number of occasions, most recently serving as chaplain to students from 2012 to 2014. Generations of pupils and staff remember his warmth, humour, and accessibility, qualities that endeared him to the school community. His connection to Gormanston ensured he left a lasting legacy not just in parish life, but also in education and youth services in the wider East Meath and Drogheda area.
Throughout his life, Fr. Brendan championed community and peace. In Bray, he introduced altar girls at Mass in the late 1980s, a progressive move for the time. He also promoted family Masses, engaging children directly in the liturgy, and was known for his laughter, kindness, and accessibility.
Tributes have poured in from across Ireland. Cllr. Malachaí Duddy described him as “universally loved,” while former TD Cllr. Joe Behan praised his “extraordinary generosity.” Limerick GAA remembered him as “a great priest and community person.” His confrère and lifelong friend, Fr. Paddy Power O.F.M., said: “About an hour ago Fr. Brendan Scully died and went on the journey to meet Him for whom he gave his life. May the Lord allow Saint Peter to open wide the gates of Paradise and greet him with the words ‘Welcome good and faithful servant.’”
Fr. Brendan passed away peacefully on 30th August 2025, in the care of the Sisters of Nazareth, Clontarf. He is survived by his sister Moyra McGuinness, extended family, Franciscan confrères, and countless friends and parishioners whose lives he touched.
At Gormanston and beyond, he will be remembered as a larger-than-life character who combined faith, sport, and community in a way that left an indelible mark.
