WHITE Oaks Rehabilitation Centre has paid tribute to its founding father, Fr Neal Carlin.
Fr Carlin, who died late last week, was buried on Monday following Requiem Mass in St Eugene’s Cathedral, Derry.
Aged 81, he passed away peacefully at the nursing unit at Buncrana Community Hospita
He will be forever remembered for the founding of White Oaks Rehabilitation Centre, near Bridgend.
“Today as we begin a new chapter in the life of White Oaks it is difficult to put into words the extent of Fr Neal’s contribution to White Oaks and the loss we feel,” a spokesperson said.
“Not only was his vision and drive so crucial to making an idea a reality, but his presence here over the years made a lasting impact on the lives of so many who have passed through our doors.
“We thank God for the gift Fr Neal has been to us all. Now we carry on that living legacy by continuing to provide healing and hope for those with addiction and for families affected.
“In the near future we begin a new venture in Letterkenny, dear to Fr Neal’s heart, and this will underpin support for those seeking to make a new beginning.
He founded the Columba Community just over 40 years ago, and together they also established St Anthony’s Retreat Centre near Bridgend, the IOSAS Centre organic gardens and the Celtic Prayer Garden near Muff.
Predeceased by his mother May, father Neal and sister Una, he is survived by brothers Joe, James, Aidan, Desmond, Brendan and sisters Christine (South Africa) and Angela.
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