FATHER Dermott Donnelly, whose brother is ITV star Declan Donnelly, died aged 55 on Friday July 8.
The one-half brother of the popular duo Ant and Dec has passed away suddenly hours after falling seriously ill, according to reports. The Bishop of Hexham and Newcastle confirmed the tragic news: “It is with great sadness that I inform you of the death of Father Dermott Donnelly, who passed away peacefully this afternoon in hospital.
“This has been a huge shock to all of us.
“Please pray for the repose of his soul and keep his family, especially his mother, in your prayers at this difficult time.
“Funeral arrangements will follow when finalized.”
Sun reported that “December arrived [at the hospital] with other family members. There are about 12 of them there.”
The I’m A Celebrity host, who is the youngest of seven brothers and sisters, was said to be very close with his brother and revealed that he almost followed his brother into the priesthood.
The Stanley, Dipton and Byermoor Catholic parishes broke the news that Father Donnelly had been rushed to hospital on Thursday 7 July.
“Pray for Father Dermott who is in extremely poor condition in hospital,” read a message on Facebook.
“Tomorrow night, between 6 and 7 p.m., there will be a period of time before the Blessed Sacrament so that we can come together as a community at St. Joseph’s Church to pray for Father Dermott’s well-being.
“Please be respectful of Father Dermott and his family at this difficult time, we will update you as we receive the most up-to-date information verified by the Diocese.”
However, he sadly passed away after a sudden illness.
On Friday, July 8, the Stanley, Dipton and Byermoor Catholic parishes wrote: “It is with deep sadness that we announce the death of Father Dermott Donnelly.
“Keep Father Dermott in your prayers and pray for the repose of his soul.
“Rest in peace.”
Facebook users paid tribute to Father.
“Father Dermot, you were a wonderful priest, I remember you from the Catholic Cathedral of Saint Mary. Rest in peace Father, may perpetual light shine for you. My condolences to Dec and his family,” one person wrote.
Another said: “Rip Father Dermott. Such a lovely man and a wonderful priest. Prayers and thoughts with his family.”