02-07-2025
Cork native Brother Kevin Crowley, founder of Capuchin Day Centre, dies aged 90
Cork native Brother Kevin Crowley, who founded the Capuchin Day Centre in Dublin, has died at the age of 90.
Originally from Enniskeane, Br Kevin founded the day centre for homeless people on Bow Street in Dublin in 1969. He retired in August 2022 and returned to his native county.
The Irish Capuchin Franciscans said Br Kevin died early on Wednesday "in the wonderful care of Mount Desert Nursing Home in Cork".
"He was known throughout the country and beyond as a Brother to the poor, particularly through his work in the Capuchin Day Centre for Homeless People which he founded on Bow Street, Dublin in 1969," said a statement.
"Through his ministry and life as a Capuchin Friar, Brother Kevin opened his heart and his hands to serve those most in need."
After founding the day centre in 1969, Br Kevin became synonymous with helping the poor of Dublin city down through the decades. It provides food and shelter to an average of 800 people every day. His last day at the centre was August 19, 2022.
In 2018, Pope Francis visited the centre where he met Br Kevin and some of the people who use the essential services there.
Pope Francis shakes hands with Br Kevin Crowley as he arrives for a visit to the Capuchin Day Centre in 2018. File picture: Maxwell Photography/PA Wire
Close friend of Br Kevin, former Lord Mayor of Dublin and councillor Christy Burke, paid tribute.
'It was a pleasure to bestow the Freedom of the City on Br Kevin in 2015. He helped thousands of people who were homeless over the years. My sincere condolences to his family and friends. His legacy will live on forever,' Mr Burke said.
'For decades, Br Kevin was a beacon of compassion and dignity for those experiencing homelessness in Dublin. He gave his life to serving others, always with kindness, humility and quiet strength. To so many, he was nothing less than a living saint.
"When I last visited him in Cork, he spoke with deep affection about the people he had served and the incredible generosity he witnessed over the past 50 years. He never sought recognition, but he inspired countless others through his example.
'Today, I mourn not only a remarkable man, but a close and cherished friend. His presence will be missed dearly, but his spirit will live on in the hearts of those he helped and those who loved him."
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