Monsignor Edward Kavanagh, a native son of Ireland who came to Sacramento in 1948, died today of natural causes. He was 93 and passed away on St. Patrick’s Day. For nearly 60 years, Monsignor Kavanagh was pastor or in residence at St. Rose Parish in South Sacramento. During his remarkable ministry, he oversaw an orphanage, day-care center, and a school along with numerous community charities. St. Patrick’s Academy, a K-8 parochial school, continues at the site. Funeral arrangements are pending.
The Most Rev. Jaime Soto, Roman Catholic Bishop of Sacramento, issued the following statement on the news of Monsignor Kavanagh’s death:
“Monsignor Ed Kavanagh was an indomitable priestly figure, a force of nature. He cared deeply for the community, working tirelessly on behalf of the poor and children. He was an indefatigable defender of the unborn, always fighting to end the practice of abortion, because he believed all children deserve a chance. He gave his heart to the children and young people who passed through St. Patrick’s Home and Academy.
“Did you need a job? A place to live? Maybe an old car to get to that job? A few dollars for gas? Monsignor Kavanagh would always find a way.
“In all this Ed Kavanagh believed he was simply being a parish priest. His voice would frequently bellow with the words of the hymn he deeply loved, ‘When Christ shall come, With a shout of acclamation, To take me home what joy shall fill my heart, Then I shall bow in humble adoration, And there proclaim my God how great thou art.’ I am sure St. Peter and St. Patrick can already hear him coming.
“May God bless him and all the people he helped here in his beloved Sacramento.”