Clifton: Long-serving parish priest Canon Desmond Millett has died

Canon Desmond Millett

A much-loved parish priest, Canon Desmond Millett, who served St Mary's RC Church in Chippenham, Clifton Diocese for 36 years, died on Sunday, 19 September four days after his 92nd birthday. A priest right up to the end - Canon Millett had heard confessions and celebrated Mass the evening before.

Jubilee celebrations for Canon Millett took place on 2 September 2021. Twice delayed because of Coronavirus restrictions, celebrations included a Jubilee Mass and a celebration lunch with fellow priests from Clifton Diocese and the Beda College in Rome.

A press released issued at the time of his jubilee described how after a successful career in education, Canon Millett was ordained as a priest on 14 April 1971. Respected and loved by parishioners and non-Catholics alike, during his time at St Mary's he received a bravery award for preventing a suicide attempt on Chippenham's railway bridge. and three papal commendations for his work in the community.

Despite three serious heart operations, this irrepressible priest spent much of his time supporting St Mary's Primary School and Chippenham Hospital. He also oversaw local projects for the elderly, the homeless and for refugees living in the area.

During the pandemic, 'Father M' worked tirelessly to ensure the wellbeing of Chippenham residents, arranging food deliveries and financial support for vulnerable people of all ages.

On 15 September this year, 'Des' celebrated his 92nd birthday. His family visited from Clonmel, in County Tipperary, Ireland to take him away for a well-deserved holiday.

Parishioner Irene Wilkie wrote: "Parishioners at St Mary's have many happy memories of their inimitable priest. They talk lovingly about his kindness, his sense of humour, his incomparable smile, his wisdom, and his indomitable faith in the Lord he loved. But it was not just his parishioners who knew and respected Canon Millett, it was everyone he came into contact with, irrespective of the labels that usually defined them.

"Our deep sadness at his passing certainly speaks volumes, but living by his example would be the only fitting tribute to our much-loved friend. He accepted everyone as he found them, and left everyone feeling better for having known him."

More tributes to follow.

Canon Millett's body will be received into The Assumption of The Blessed Virgin Mary, Chippenham on Tuesday 5th October at 4pm followed by Mass. There will be an additional Mass that evening at 6.30pm. The Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Wednesday 6th October at 11am followed by a private Burial in Chippenham Cemetery.