Following the death of Bishop Edward Daly, the Derry News was this week contacted by US woman Kara McMorrow who has written this article on her family’s own special relationship with him.

My grandparents are Julia (McKeon) Grassano and Rocco Grassano who met in Belleek in the early 1940s.

Julia was born in Boston, Massachusetts, but was raised in Belleek on her father James McKeon's farm, just a short bit away from the Belleek Factory.

Rocco was an American who was serving for the United States during WWII and was stationed in that area of Northern Ireland, where he met Julia.

It was during my grandfather's time in Ireland, that he had the opportunity to meet young Edward Daly.

I was told by my grandfather, and later by Bishop Daly himself, that Rocco and his fellow GI's used to take the local children out for rides on their jeep and would also give them candy when so much of that was rationed.

I'm sure at the time Rocco didn't realize how important Edward would become to so many people. Lillian also knew Edward and his family, being from that small town.

Father Daly, Rocco and Lillian Grassano would be reunited many many years later at the home of Dr. John Campbell, whose brother I believe was a priest and was involved with bringing Father Daly to Washington following Bloody Sunday.

Although, I cannot recall all the details of this reunion, as my grandparents have passed away, I distinctly recall them telling me this story over and over, and sharing how emotional they all were to have seen each other again.

My grandparents always missed Ireland so this connection to such a special place was a real blessing.

Bishop Daly and my grandfather maintained correspondences for many years.

Rocco and Lillian always enjoyed keeping up on the news of Ireland and I'm sure Bishop Daly enjoyed reading all about the Grassano family news. I know they had a tremendously special relationship, as I know they are mentioned in a few of his books.

I had the pleasure of finally meeting Bishop Daly four years ago, following the death of my mother, Mary, Rocco and Lilly's eldest daughter.

I had been in communication with Bishop Daly following my mother's passing and he said if we were ever in Ireland to let him know.
Ironically, my father Clarence and I, planned to travelled to Fermangh that summer for my 30th birthday.

I immediately contacted Bishop Daly and we made arrangements to meet in Belleek, at the Belleek Factory.

My dad and I spent many hours with him - hearing all about his incredible ministry, and stories of my grandparents as only he would know.

I couldn't help but feel so honoured that he took the time to drive down to meet us and really made that trip unforgettable.

My favourite part of the day was when we went for a walk through town and a car pulled over to say hello to him.

The woman was overjoyed to see him. However, he was more excited to tell her Rocco and Lilly's granddaughter had returned. It was evident how much he loved my grandparents.

As I sit back today and think of that trip, and read all the stories written about him, I really feel so honoured to have had the opportunity and privilege to be in his company.

I will forever remember that time, for he was a remarkably humble, gracious and beautiful soul.

His legacy will certainly live on, as he is forever a part of my family.

Rest in Peace Bishop Daly.

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