Following a solemn Requiem Mass at the Franciscan Church in Limerick yesterday, the remains of the late Father Raphael, O.F.M., were interred at Mount St. Lawrence Cemetery. Father Raphael, while serving as a chaplain at the front, experienced declining health due to the strain of his dedicated service and increasing efforts among the wounded.

Returning home to recuperate, Father Raphael’s condition deteriorated rapidly while crossing from France, leading to his untimely passing soon after admission to Netley Hospital in Southampton. At the age of 30, Father Raphael was the younger son of Mr J. Abbeyfeale. He entered the Franciscan Order in 1903 and ministered in various locations, including Athlone, Cork, and Limerick.

The obsequies were attended by a large and representative gathering, with chief mourners including Mr Lawrence and Mr Denis McAuliffe, brothers of the deceased, and Reverend J. Begley, O.F.M., from Waterford, along with D. Begley from Camas. Also in attendance were Reverend Father Stack, C.SS.R., and Dr J. Mangan from Ennis, alongside several other mourners representing familial and community connections.

The sombre occasion marked the end of a life dedicated to service and compassion, as Father Raphael’s memory lives on in the hearts of those he touched through his ministry and his selfless commitment to the welfare of others.

Irish Independent – Friday 13 October 1916