Gleeson, Richard, 1910-1976, Capuchin priest

John Joseph Gleeson was born in Cork on 28 October 1910. He received his initial education with the Christian Brothers and later at the Capuchin College in Rochestown in County Cork. He joined the Order in November 1929 and took Richard as his religious name. After completing his novitiate, he graduated with a BA degree in philosophy and advanced to his theological studies. He was ordained to the priesthood at Ard Mhuire Capuchin Friary in County Donegal on 27 June 1937. Shortly afterwards, he was transferred to the American mission custody. He was initially assigned to St. Patrick’s Friary in Wilmington, Delaware, where he gave numerous missions, retreats, and novenas. He was also frequently chosen as the homilist at Requiem Masses for deceased friars. He worked as associate pastor, as vice novice master and teacher, and as guardian and pastor. Later in his life, he ministered in Capuchin foundations in California (Fort Bragg, Burlingame, and La Cañada Flintridge) and in Oregon (Roseburg and Bend). His health began to decline in the late 1950s and he was transferred to Our Lady of Angels Parish in Burlingame. He died on 18 June 1976 and was buried in the cemetery attached to San Lorenzo Seminary, Santa Inés, California.

Baptismal name: John Joseph Gleeson
Religious name: Fr. Richard Gleeson OFM Cap.
Date of birth: 28 Oct. 1910
Place of birth: 50 Evergreen Street, Cork
Name of father: Joseph Gleeson
Name of mother: Nora Gleeson (née O’Leary)
Date of reception into the Capuchin Order: 1 Nov. 1929
Date of first profession: 2 Nov. 1930
Date of final profession: 2 Nov. 1933
Educational attainments: BA, 2nd class hons. (1933)
Date of ordination (as priest): 27 June 1937 (Ard Mhuire Friary, County Donegal)
Missionary activities: Travelled to the United States mission in 1937
Date of death: 18 June 1976
Place of death: Burlingame, California
Place of burial: Cemetery, San Lorenzo Seminary, Santa Inés, California