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Rev. Joseph J. O'Malley, O.S.A. (1909-1971)

Rev. Joseph J. O'Malley, O.S.A. entered eternal life October 28, 1971.

Joseph John O'Malley was born May 24, 1909 in Hoosick Falls, New York to John and Mary (Curry) O'Malley. He was Baptized June 13, 1909 in Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, Hoosick Falls. He received the Sacrament of Confirmation June 7, 1920 in the same church.

He was received into the Augustinian Novitiate September 9, 1928. He professed simple (temporary) vows in the Order of St. Augustine September 10, 1929 and solemn (permanent) vows September 10, 1932. He earned a B. A. in Philosophy from Villanova College, Villanova, Pennsylvania, in 1933. He then pursued theological studies at Augustinian College, Washington, D.C. He was ordained a Priest June 9, 1936. He did additional studies at The Temple School, Washington, at DePaul University, Chicago, Illinois and at the University of Southern California.

Father O'Malley taught at St. Rita High School, Chicago from 1937 to 1941. From 1941 to 1945 he taught at St. Augustine High School, San Diego, California. He returned to St. Rita High School in 1945 and taught there until 1966.

He was in 1966 named Associate Pastor of St. Matthew Parish, Flint, Michigan. He also served as Prior (local superior) of the Augustinian community there. He died in Flint October 28, 1971.

Father O'Malley was known for his work with athletic groups, both in Chicago and in Flint. He served as Athletic Director at St. Rita High School, and coached baseball teams at St. Rita as well as Pony League and Little League teams in the surrounding neighborhood. After his transfer to Flint, he coached baseball teams at St. Matthew School. In recognition of his contribution to the youth of Flint, the City Commission proclaimed May 27, 1979 Father Joseph J. O'Malley Day.

He is buried in the Augustinian plot at Holy Sepulchre Cemetery, Alsip, Illinois.

Memorial gifts may be made to Augustinian Guild, 5401 S. Cornell Ave., Chicago, IL 60615-5664, or via Augustinian Guild Secure On-line Giving.