FORMER Church of Ireland Bishop of Clogher Brian Hannon has been described as someone who "did all in his power to work towards peaceful outcomes in a divided society" following his death.
Reverend Hannon (85), father of Divine Comedy leader Neil Hannon, died yesterday.
Elected Bishop of Clogher in 1986, he retired in 2001.
His career began in the Diocese of Derry and Raphoe where he became a curate.
Primate of All Ireland and Archbishop of Armagh, Reverend John McDowell, said Rev Hannon was "deeply loved by so many people in the Diocese of Clogher who knew him well, and just as deeply respected right across the church which he served with diligence, with good humour, and with dignity.
"He ministered in times and places which were amongst the most difficult during the Troubles, yet he did so without growing bitter or cynical. He spoke and acted always with compassion and understanding and did all in his power to work towards peaceful outcomes in a divided society.
"His love for his wife Maeve and for his sons, Desmond, Brendan and Neil, was deep and unclouded."
Current Bishop of Clogher, Rev Ian Ellis, said the diocese "will be greatly saddened" by the loss, adding: "Bishop Brian was much loved and admired for his spiritual and pastoral support for his people, especially in providing leadership through days of disruption and violence in Northern Ireland."