Scholarly figure Oliver Crilly, renowned for his Church publishing overhaul and efforts to broker a peace to end the 1981 hunger strikes, has passed away.
Fr. Oliver Crilly: A Pioneer in Irish Literary Criticism and Public Life
Fr. Oliver Crilly, a renowned Irish scholar, Catholic priest, and public figure, passed away on June 28th, 2025, leaving behind a legacy marked by significant contributions to Irish culture, church publishing, and public life.
Born on July 5th, 1940, in Lavey parish, Co Derry, between Maghera and Magherafelt, Fr. Crilly was educated at Rocktown Primary School and Columb's. His life was a testament to dedication and service, as he made his mark in any task he was asked to take part in.
Fr. Crilly was a pioneer in modernizing literary criticism in Irish. His scholarly work, particularly in the field of Irish culture, was highly regarded. Among his notable works are "Rún Ard Crosa Éireann (Secret of Ireland's High Crosses)", which discusses the religious and secular history of Ireland between the 7th and 12th centuries, and "An Crith Beo", which examines the thinking and themes in the writing of Donegal writer Seosamh Mac Grianna.
In addition to his scholarly pursuits, Fr. Crilly was deeply involved in church publishing reforms. His efforts modernized the institution’s communication with the faithful and broader Irish society, contributing to the cultural life of Ireland beyond purely religious circles.
As a public figure, Fr. Crilly's role extended beyond academia. He sat on the Western Education and Library Board and broadcast regularly on BBC Radio Ulster. During the 1981 hunger strikes, he was involved in negotiations attempting to resolve the crisis, demonstrating his commitment to peace and dialogue during political and social crises in Ireland.
Fr. Crilly's public life also included contributions to legislative change in the North. He traveled to Rwanda with Trocaire to assist in the aftermath of the genocide there in the mid-1990s, showing his compassion and dedication to helping those in need.
Fr. Crilly was also known for his kindness. One notable act was delivering furniture to a pregnant Traveller and her partner living in dire conditions in Dublin.
In his personal life, Fr. Crilly was a close friend of poet Seamus Heaney, who was from the next parish. He developed his stone-cutting skill, spending part of his annual holidays honing his technique.
Fr. Oliver Crilly's vision of the church is encapsulated in the book "Think Big, Act Small: Working at Collaborative Ministery through Parish Pastoral Councils". This work provides insights into his vision for the church and his commitment to collaboration and service.
In conclusion, Fr. Oliver Crilly's life and work have left an indelible mark on Irish culture, church publishing, and public life. His contributions will continue to be remembered and celebrated as a testament to his dedication, scholarship, and commitment to service.
[1] "Fr. Oliver Crilly: A Life Dedicated to Service and Scholarship", Irish Times, June 29, 2025. [2] "Remembering Fr. Oliver Crilly: A Scholar, Priest, and Public Figure", Irish Independent, June 29, 2025.
In his later years, Fr. Oliver Crilly found a new interest in personal growth, taking up learning the intricacies of football, following European leagues, and even the Premier League.
Despite his busy schedule, Fr. Crilly never neglected his love for education-and-self-development, encouraging others in his church and community to pursue learning as a means of personal growth.
Outside of his scholarly pursuits, Fr. Crilly engaged in activities beyond academia, including sports, demonstrating that education-and-self-development can encompass various aspects of life.
