Tributes after death of former Auxiliary Bishop of Derry Francis Lagan

In a statement Bishop Donal McKeown said: “The Diocese of Derry regrets to announce the death of Bishop Francis Lagan, who had served as Auxiliary Bishop in the diocese from 1988-2010.

“He had served as a gentle pastor for almost 60 years.

“We offer condolences to his extended family and close friends. May he rest in peace.”

Bishop Lagan stepped down from his position as Auxiliary Bishop when retiring at the age of 75.

Born in Maghera in 1934, Bishop Lagan was ordained a priest in 1960.

He held a number of teaching positions in the diocese which spans the Derry-Donegal border, including at St Columb’s College and at Carndonagh College and Carndonagh Community School in County Donegal.

He also served as a curate in Strabane and as administrator of St Mary’s Parish.