Provost Emeritus Monsignor Canon Cyril Murtagh, former Parish Priest at both Petersfield and Liphook for almost 50 years, was laid to rest in Petersfield Cemetery last week after a Requiem Mass at Portsmouth Cathedral.

The service on September 1 was led by Bishop Philip Egan, who was joined by Bishop Hollis and Bishop Doyle and other members of the clergy.

The Right Reverend Peter Doyle, Bishop Emeritus of Northampton and good friend of Father Murtagh, who died aged 95 on August 18, said in his homily: “The priest is called to gather people, to teach and preach, and give pastoral care and guidance as they go out in service of the Lord.

“He is called to be a shepherd on our journey to heaven.

“Your presence here is a testimony to those elements of Cyril’s ministry.

“Proclaiming the death and resurrection of Jesus in his care for people, he touched the lives of so many with great sense and wisdom.

“I’m sure that the Lord will be welcoming him to the eternal banquet in heaven saying, ‘Well done, good and faithful servant’.”

Petersfield Catholic Parish Priest Father Peter Hollins later conducted Father Murtagh’s burial at Petersfield Cemetery.

A reception for family, parishioners and friends at St Laurence Church Hall in Station Road followed.

Fr Murtagh’s nephew Dominic Murtagh gave a tribute to his uncle and thanked everyone present.

He said: “Thank you to Father Hollins, always a good friend to Cyril, for the committal service and saying such kind words.

“To Sarah, ever a stalwart at family gatherings, for fitting today’s excellent catering into a crowded schedule.

“To Rita who has helped Breideen with hall arrangements and the very poignant photo display of Cyril’s life, and to Christina for organising the flowers.

“Cyril’s love, generosity, understanding and warmth spread across the generations.

“Being the last survivor of nine children he had a close relationship with many family members.

“He married many of us, baptised our children and grandchildren, and often acted as godfather.

“At the age of 86, he even helped celebrate Mass at Woldingham School for 1,500 people on the day of my retirement.

“His great warmth and his impish sense humour never failed to shine through on these happy occasions.

“He also, sadly, buried his eight siblings and various other members of our extended family.

“Cyril loved orchestrating large happy family gatherings, even in his later years.

“But there was much more. All families have their ups and downs, and Cyril was always available, with his wise counsel, guidance and sympathy, for those of us who needed support.

“He was our rock. We will miss him dearly.

“We have such fond memories of a wonderful man who lived a full and very long life.

“Finally, a special thank you must go to my cousin Breideen. You were Cyril’s tower of strength, love and friendship for so long.

“Your devotion has been truly remarkable, and we are totally indebted to you for always being there for him through thick and thin.

“I can hear Cyril now telling you to take afternoon naps and a regular good glass of red.”

Two bishops, among other clergy and parishoners, also paid tribute to Fr Murtagh.

Portsmouth Diocese Bishop Egan said: “Canon Cyril Murtagh was a most remarkable man and an outstanding priest, a true servant of God and His people.

“A selfless pastor for 30 years in Petersfield and then almost 20 in Liphook, he held many important positions in the Diocese of Portsmouth.

“These included the role of Diocesan Administrator during the period after the death of Bishop Emery and before the appointment of Bishop Crispian.

“He was a legendary figure, a ‘rock,’ and a joyful man of prayer, whose wise counsel and experience I sought myself.

“We will all miss him greatly. As we pray for his repose, we thank God for all that we have received through him.’

Bishop Crispian Hollis, former Bishop of Portsmouth added: “I have the fondest memories of Monsignor Cyril because he was a good friend over the years.

“I knew him when I was working at the Chaplaincy in Oxford University when he was Parish Priest of North Hinksey.

“He was, of course, Vicar General of the Portsmouth diocese when I was appointed Bishop in 1988 and was of immense help to me as I settled down into life in the diocese. He knew ‘where all the bodies were’!

“Cyril was a good and faithful servant of the Lord and His people in parish and in the diocese and I’m sure he will be welcomed by the Lord as that as he comes face to face with the Lord and enters into His Kingdom.”

A recording for the Requiem Mass can be found at https://www.portsmouthcatholiccathedral.org.uk/live-mass.php