Rev. Dr. Derek SMYTH

Very saddened to hear of the passing of Fr. Derek. He was an inspirational voice to me as a teenager and young adult growing up in Foxrock Parish. His refreshing, challenging and often humorous approach to celebrating Mass completely changed my attitude towards God and religion. His philosophical take left one mulling over his homily on many a Sunday afternoon. We didn't know how lucky we all were to have received his wisdom for as many years as we did. My deepest sympathies to his family and friends. Rest in peace.

Sincere condolences to all of Derek's family and friends.
My heart rose when I saw him walk out onto the altar as I knew we were all in for a 'treat'. He really was worth listening to and you always felt better having heard him. I often tried to recount the substance of his sermons (badly) to friends and family for months afterwards as although they may have started out based on a gospel they truly were life lessons. I am sure he will be deeply missed and he will be fondly remembered by anyone who had the good fortune to spend even a brief amount of time in his company.

I have very fond memories of Fr. Derek from my time as a student in UCD and being on the Commerce Day Committee. He was a great support to us, always full of encouragement and never shy to challenge. He was also generous and opened St Stephen's to us for the odd celebration! Years later when he came to Foxrock, I was lucky to get to know him again, and my mum (RIP) loved his sometimes controversial and challenging approach. May he rest in peace. Sincere condolences to all his family and friends. Ní bheidh a leithéad arís ann.

Rest In Peace, Fr. Derek.

Thank You So So Much For Everything.

You were An Excellent Priest and Chaplain.

I came to know Fr.Derek during lockdown while searching for Mass online.
I feel so lucky to have come across this most inspirational,compassionate and kind man.I will miss his thought provoking sermons.
Sincere sympathy to his family and friends.
May his gentle soul rest in peace.

Derek was so full of life and when I went to UCD he completely changed my view of what priests were. He was though provoking, fun, and supportive. He challenged my conservative views and encouraged me to think for myself and make up my own mind about my faith.
My mum was dying while I was in UCD but Derek always kept and eye on me, as did others, and provide a safe place for me while I processed with seems unfair and heartbreaking.
He was also fun and so many BFG get together and parties were held where he was a huge part of it. I made lifelong friends and Derek accepted me for my quirky nature etc.
the world is a sadder place without Derek but heaven is now laughing, squash games there will never be the same.
Rest In Peace Derek xxxx

Thank you for helping me see God in a different way. Your Sunday sermons were always thought provoking and you will be sadly missed. Rest in Peace.

Part 2: When the 1980s BFG members decided to gather once again for a retreat in January 2000, Derek was there with and for us, and it was a heart-warming experience to say the least. The following points (mentioned in the testimonies) really bring Derek to my mind: He was challenging, his sermons were indeed thought-provoking and he was definitely mischievous and fun to be around. His was a sincere search for meaning and understanding of life. His words “A life that goes unchallenged isn’t a life worth living” and the reminder to us (reflection) to live in the present. May God bless and welcome you to him now Derek. Your suffering is over. You will be remembered and missed by all those who knew you, for many, many years to come. Rest in peace Derek. Thank you for everything.

Part 1: I would like to send my Sincere Condolences, and I pray that God’s strength will be with the entire Smyth family, and Derek’s friends everywhere, going forward. I couldn’t write this message without first following Derek’s funeral mass online, and taking some time to reflect on, and digest the news. I am glad I did, as his funeral mass was both emotional and beautiful. I was blessed to be a part of the Belfield Folk Group in the 1980s, and Derek meant so much to all of us. He was an inspiration. I felt that he and the BFG were a rock of strength at a difficult time in my own life. I still feel that strength today. Yes those parties were memorable, and yes - in spite of not being on Facebook, I am still close friends with my best friends from back then - most of whom were in the BFG, and that, in spite of our being geographically dispersed. I didn’t recall (or perhaps didn’t know) that Derek created Commerce Day. How wonderful! Another source of pride for Derek’s family. Derek and other UCD chaplains came with us twice a year on retreat; he would drop by during our Thursday evening rehearsals (and escape from the library), and said mass (which we sang at) on Fridays during term, but not just... He always seemed to be there when he was needed.

We were privileged to have Fr. Derek in our Parish of Foxrock for so many years, he was a wonderful priest. We looked forward to his homilies they were so inspiring, sometimes provocative, but always left us with something to think about. He was kind and helpful and a great listener.

I wish to belatedly express my condolances to Eamonn and the others of the Smyth family on the death of their brother Derek. May he rest in peace!

Eamon, Philip and the extended Smyth Family my sincere condolences on the sad loss of your brother Derek. May he Rest In Peace.

Sincere condolences to Eamonn, Mary, Kate, Barry and to all of the Smyth family. May Derek Rest in Peace. Love & Prayers.
Sheila, Padraig & Noah.

Sympathy to Derek's family.

Fondly remembered during his short time with us.

Rest In Peace 🙏.

Patricia, sorry to hear about your brother's death, may Derek's gentle soul rest in heavenly peace.

Our sincere condolences to all of Fr. Derek’s family. As parishioners of Foxrock we were privileged to have Derek in our parish. He was such a sincere caring man and his homilies were always thought provoking, relevant and extremely compassionately given. He was a lovely person and we will miss him. May he rest in peace

My deepest sympathy to Patricia and all the Smyth family on Derek's Passing.

Father Derek was a wonderful priest. Compassion, wisdom and eloquence were his talents and we were lucky to have him with us in Foxrock for so many years. Thirteen years ago, Derek came with me and my family to bury my husband and he put my very young grandchildren completely at easy about what was happening for their beloved Grandad. I was hugely grateful.
It was a privilege for myself and other members of the Funeral Team to participate in the beautiful and moving funeral ceremonies. May he rest in peace.

We would like to express our sincere condolences to Patricia, Eamonn, Philip and all the Smyth family on the passing of your dear brother Derek.
May he Rest in Peace

Sincere condolences to the Smyth family. When my father passed away a few months after I started at UCD, Derek reached out to me and met with me regularly. I have never forgotten the way he helped me to come to terms with my loss at that time.

I have very fond memories of Derek as Chaplain when I was a student at UCD in the early 1980's and a member of the Belfield Folk Group - he was always very approachable, supportive and full of fun - for sure he will live on in the memory of everyone who knew him. Sincere condolences to all of Derek's family & friends - may he rest in peace.

During 2020, in lockdown, we were searching for a Mass to attend online. We stumbled across Fr Derek and were stopped in our tracks. He "rocked" us. It had been years, if ever, since we had heard a priest living in the "now", beset with all the same challenges and doubts as us ordinary folk, and yet radiant with hope. He called it like he saw it, and never minced words, but knew soul deep that every human being was worthy of respect and love. We heard Christ in him. Derek, you helped us through Covid and far beyond. You shared the treasures of your life's journey, your reading and your mind, and allowed us to "meet" you there. We will always hold you in our hearts.

Our sincere condolences to Fr Derek’s family and the entire Foxrock community on the sad occasion of his passing.
I have never met the Man in person , but I feel I knew him after watching and listening to his Never boring sermons from here in Devon .
God rest his soul . Alo& Nancy Kavanagh. U.K

Sincere sympathy to Fr Derek's Family & friends on his passing. I first encountered him in Bray & followed him to Foxrock because of his messages of compassion, tolerance, acceptance and the mercy & love of God. He spoke to his congregation & never preached which was very encouraging. May he rest in peace after a vocation well lived.

Sincere sympathies to Eamonn, Phillip and the Smyth family at this difficult time. May Derek rest in peace.

I will miss you forever. Rest in peace my friend x

To my forever friend fr derek smyth i am deeply saddened to hear of your passing.you belived in me many years ago and i will never forget you.a man of true faith.seldom comes better.

Our most deepest sympathies to Patricia, Eamonn, Philip, Mary, Sarah and the Smyth family on the sad passing of Derek.
He was an absolute gentleman with the greatest sense of humour and wit.
He ment so much to so many and that could be seen so evidently today at his mass.
Thinking of you all at this hard time.
May Derek’s gentle soul rest in peace. 🕊️

So sorry to hear of Derek’s passing. I have great memories of his time as chaplain in UCD in the 80s. Witty, wise, tolerant, sometimes irreverent, always great company and don’t forget it’s with a Y not an I. RIP.

Deepest sympathy patrica and all the smyth family on derek's death rip.i hope patrica you are well.i keep in touch with lorraine still.she loves living in rush
Colette lombard

Thank you Derek for opening the Word to us and above all being yourself. May the light of heaven shine on you and may you rest in peace. C🦋

I was saddened to hear of Fr Derek's passing at this evenings vigil mass in Foxrock. To me, Fr Derek was unique as his sermons were always riveting and his choice of music uplifting.
My sincere condolences to Fr Derek's family and to his fellow priests

Sincere condolences to Eamonn, Philip and the extended Smyth family on the death of Rev. Dr. Derek. May he rest in peace.

Derek was a beacon for many, thoughtfully provocative for others, courageous against prevailing winds. I, like many, thoroughly enjoyed his lively and stimulating company.
RIP

Pearse, Dan, Ivan and Bernard

We want to extend our condolences to you all on death of Derek Smyth. We are all thinking of you all at this time. May Derek RIP

With love

Jack Tonge and Tonge/Delaney Cousins

May you rest in peace Derek. Very fond memories of your chaplaincy in UCD in the 80’s. You always challenged us!

“Ne Temere” Derek! Your Monday morning altar server!

Derek, my mentor. Too rare to die. Our tribe is less by one. To his family and friends our sincere condolences. Martin & Cathy

The Empty Chair

In the therapist's room, where wisdom hopefully sits, An empty chair stands guard, its arms worn smooth. Derek’s voice, a fading echo, lingers, Lost to time’s relentless march.

The books on the shelves, their spines worn, Hold secrets and stories, but no answers. The flicker of candlelight dances on the desk, Seeking solace in the shadows.

The coffee machine, now dry, remembers fervent debates— Ideas birthed, dreams nurtured, paths illuminated. Yet my mentor’s presence, like morning mist, Dissipates, leaving only memories etched in air.

The sun sets beyond the window, casting long shadows, And I sit alone, gazing at the empty chair. In its hollow embrace, I find both sorrow and gratitude, Derek lives on in the ripples he created.

His legacy, woven into the fabric of my soul, Guides me forward, even when his physical form fades. And so, I honor the mentor who shaped my journey, Knowing that his absence is a testament to his impact.

Our deepest condolences to the Smyth family and his life long friends on the sad passing of Derek.
He was a lovely person and will be greatly missed . Rest in peace Derek .

Rev Dr Derek Smyth, it was a special gift to share the briefest of time with you, spanning 43 years, after a gap of 39. Thank you for your enthusiasm, wisdom and inspiration ; if only there was more time.

Deepest Condolences to your family, friends and all those of us you have helped.

Sincere sympathy to Pat and to all of Fr. Derek’s family. I used to smile with anticipation, when I saw that Fr. Derek was saying Mass. He was a deeply holy man, his sermons were always joyfully candid and thought provoking, he was always sensitive to those who found life difficult. May he rest in peace.

Our deepest Condolences to the Smyth family on the loss of Derek. He was a truly wonderful human being and we have benefited hugely from knowing him. I am so grateful for the time we had with him as our Parish Priest. His homilies were inspirational and during Derek’s short time in Bray, my father returned to daily mass in the hope of receiving his ‘thought for the day’. These little gems, always thought provoking and quirky were then discussed and debated with family and friends, providing many hours of debate and a new joi de vie. I will miss Derek so much.

We offer our sincere sympathies to you all on Fr Dereks death. He is remembered with fondness and happy occasions. Unfortunately we cannot attend his funeral due to a family wedding today. From all connected in Coole.

To Rev Dr Derek's family .
Really enjoyed Derek's company when he was with us in our wonderful village of Dunlavin.
The 6 pm winter games of squash will always be a happy memory.
Rest in Peace my friend. 🙏.

Sorry to hear of the death of Derek.
Rest in Peace

My condolences to the Smyth family for your loss. Derek was a generous and warm hearted man and priest who gave me and my friends hope and friendship in our youth. May he rest in peace.

My deepest condolences and may Fr Derek rest in peace.

I have fond memories of Fr Derek officiating and celebrating Kate & Barry's wedding. The personal touch and heartfelt meaning that he brought remains so special.

My thoughts are with Eamonn, Mary, Kate, Barry and his entire family during this time.

I am very saddened to hear that Fr Derek has passed away. I met him when he was chaplain at UCD in the 70’s. He officiated our wedding and came to visit us near San Francisco. A kind decent human being.

May he Rest In Peace

What a wonderful preacher Dr. Derek was! I came upon him one Sunday in Foxrock by pure chance. He always took a very different, insightful and fascinating stance on the text of the day. I often went to Foxrock on a Sunday in the hope of catching him there. I very much regret his passing. May he rest in peace

Condolences to the Smyth family on the loss of Derek . Derek an engaging vibrant and talented man was a dearly loved cousin to our family, being there during the most important moments in our lives. He officiated at our wedding and our daughter’s wedding some forty years later.

His wisdom and good counsel have stayed with us all our lives. We shall miss him dearly.

Sincere condolences to Eamonn and the extended Smyth family on the sad passing of Fr Derek. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam dílis.

I first met Derek when he was a chaplin in Plunketts college and then again in '95 as we trained in the Creative Counselling Centre in Dun Laoighre. We were in group therapy together and a study group. We loved going to Dereks house in Glasnevin to study as he served delicious treats. We also laughed a lot as he had a great sense of humour. I remember his ad campaign of "Men in Black" for vocations. He was very excited to see the first high speed ferry travelling out of Dun Laoighre and brought me along to see it. I am thinking of you Derek as you make another and final journey. Rest in Peace. Condolences to all his family on your loss.

Deepest sympathy to Derek's family.
We were students and friends in Clonliffe college and UCD.
May he rest in peace.

Sincere condolences to Eamonn, Mary, Kate and the extended Smyth family on Fr. Derek's sad passing. May his gentle soul rest in peace.

We both have great memories of Dereks company for Sunday lunches in both Patricia’s and Philip’s houses. We will both miss him greatly especially the fun, laughter and cheeky smile he brought to every occasion. He will be sadly missed and never forgotten.
Our thoughts are with you Patricia, Philip, Sarah, Conor, Matthew, Eamon, Mary and Kate.
May he rest in peace.

To all the Smyth Family, we share our deepest condolences on the loss of Derek. He married Will and I in Kinsale in August 2019 and he made our day so special. He spoke about the power of love and told us to always put our marriage first and find each other, even when children, work and life get in the way. It is a message I come back to every day since then. He was a kind, humble and intelligent man. We are all lucky to have known him.

Truly saddened to learn of Derek’s too early departure. Always an inspiring humanitarian who radiated kindness, encouraged reflection and was great in so many ways.

I was a student in ucd in the 1980s and a member of the church folk group with Derek as our chaplain. He was a wonderful support, great fun and very approachable. Condolences to all his family. I am grateful to have known him.

Sincere condolences to all Fr. Derek’s family on the death of beautiful Derek.
Ní bheidh a leithéid arís ann.

My sincere condolences to Patricia, Eamon, Philip and respective families on the loss of a dearly loved brother and uncle. Derek was such a special person, his intelligence, humility, interest in others, his community, the wider world and his compassion and empathy were augmented by his sharp wit and sense of humour. He will be deeply missed but the memories very much cherished by our family. Sending our love and condolences x