The official obituary of the beloved Fr. Harry Dunn:
Rev. Harold Francis Dunn, MSA, passed away peacefully on June 24, 2025, at Liza’s Place – Valley Hospice Care Center South in Wheeling, W.Va. Born on April 24, 1942, in Rome, NY., he lived a life dedicated to faith, service, and education, leaving an indelible mark on all who knew him. Father Dunn was 83 years old.
His journey of service began with his time as a U.S. Air Force Chaplain, where he provided spiritual guidance and support to those serving our nation. On May 28, 1978, he was ordained as a Catholic priest in the Diocese of Norwich, Conn., for the Society of the Missionaries of the Holy Apostles, MSA.
For nearly 50 years, Father Dunn served with unwavering dedication in the Diocese of Wheeling-Charleston as both a pastor and teacher. His passion for studying, reading, teaching, and fundraising enriched the lives of countless individuals and communities. He was a proud member of the Knights of Columbus and pursued his education at esteemed institutions including Free Academy in Rome, N.Y., Holy Apostles College in Cromwell, Conn., Oblates of Mary in Washington, D.C., and St. Mark’s in South Union, Ky.
Throughout his ministry, Father Dunn served many congregations in West Virginia including St. Francis Xavier Parish in Moundsville, St. Martin of Tours Mission in Cameron, St. Joseph Parish in Proctor, Sacred Heart Parish in Rainelle, St. Patrick Parish in Hinton, Our Lady of the Greenbrier Mission in Alderson, Sacred Heart Parish in Williamson, Christ the King Parish in Dunbar, Holy Trinity Parish in Nitro, St. Patrick Mission in Bancroft, St. Peter Parish in Welch, Sacred Heart Parish in Powhatan, Our Lady at Victory Parish in Gary, Christ the King Parish in War, St. Alphonsus Parish in Wheeling, St. John Parish in Benwood, St. James Parish in McMechen, St. Vincent de Paul Parish in Wheeling, and Our Lady of Seven Dolors Mission in Triadelphia. He also served as chaplain at the prison in Welch.
His compassionate spirit and commitment to his faith inspired all who had the privilege of knowing him.
Father Dunn was preceded in death by his parents, Wilford and Celest (Benner) Dunn, and his brother, John Dunn. He is survived by his beloved sister, Denise Dunn of Rome, N.Y., and his very dear friends, Kathleen and Isaac Dieffenbaugher and Dr. Terry Williams, who were like family to him. His legacy of love, faith, and service will continue to inspire and guide those he touched throughout his remarkable life.
Reception of the body will be at the Cathedral of St. Joseph in Wheeling at 3 p.m. on Friday, June 27, with visitation until 7 p.m. A vigil service will immediately follow with Very Rev. Sebastian E. Devasya, V.E., presiding.
On Saturday, June 28, visitation will be at the cathedral from 9 to 9:45 a.m. The Funeral Mass will follow at 10 a.m. with Most Rev. Mark Brennan, bishop of the Diocese of Wheeling-Charleston, presiding. Concelebrating the Mass will be Very Rev. Martin D. Rooney, MSA, provincial animator of the Society of the Missionaries of the Holy Apostles, USA/Vietnam; Very Rev. John Rice, V.G., V.F.; Very Rev. Sebastian E. Devasya, VE; and various diocesan priests.
The Funeral Mass will be livestreamed on the Diocese of Wheeling-Charleston’s webpage, http://www.dwc.org, and on the diocesan Facebook page.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to: Catholic Charities West Virginia , 2000 Main Street, Wheeling WV 26003.
The date and time for a committal service at Mount Calvary Cemetery, Wheeling, will be announced in the future.
