Leslie Turk

Revered Bishop Edward O'Donnell dies Sunday

by Leslie Turk

The Diocese of Lafayette's bishop from 1994 until deteriorating health forced him to return to St. Louis in 2002, Edward O'Donnell died late Sunday evening. He was 77.

"Bishop O'Donnell served the Diocese of Lafayette with love and devotion for eight years," Bishop Michael Jarrell, who succeeded O'Donnell, told The Daily Advertiser.

"He was known for his wisdom, his wit, and his sense of humor, but above all, for his passion in the cause of justice - especially for the poor.

In these last years, he became an example of faith and courage in the face of infirmity. His body was failing, but his spirit was strong. I join his family and friends in prayer that God may grant him eternal rest."

Read The Advertiser story here.