O’REILLY PE, Reverend John Walter

Ordained at St Peter’s College Chapel, Wexford, Ireland. He arrived in the Archdiocese of Melbourne on 28 November 1961. He was appointed as an Assistant Priest at Mentone Parish 1961 and Chadstone Parish 1963.

Fr John’s legendary association with St Albans Parish began in 1968, when he was first

appointed as the Assistant Priest and then

later as the Parish Priest in 1973.

He was instrumental in the development and leadership of the Federation of Catholic Regional Colleges in the Western Suburbs. Fr John was granted an honorary doctorate by the Australian Catholic University for his outstanding services to Catholic education. Fr John served tirelessly on many committees and boards in particular, the Schools Provident Fund, (later Catholic Development Fund), the Victorian Catholic Schools Association, the College of Consultors

and the Parish Appeal for the Restoration of St Patrick’s Cathedral. Fr John remained at St Albans Parish as Parish Priest until his retirement in 2017 whereupon he was appointed Pastor Emeritus. Even in his retirement Fr John graciously agreed to be the Administrator of Highett Parish. Fr John passed away on 7 February 2025.

He was one of our great priests and he served God’s people with joy and generosity. His engagement with people, encouragement of the young to practice and love their faith and his support for education stood out among his many illustrious gifts. His positive vision which extended to the wider Archdiocese and his pastorally enriching manner, inspired his brother priests and the wider civic community for over 64 years. The whole Archdiocese is indebted to his distinguished service to the Church of Melbourne. May he rest in peace. Priests’ Retirement Foundation

“Caring for those who cared”.