Edward Slattery, the beloved bishop emeritus of the Diocese of Tulsa and Eastern Oklahoma, passed away at the age of 84 after enduring several strokes.
His death marks the end of a remarkable life dedicated to faith, charity, and service to his community.
A Legacy of Faith
Bishop Slattery’s deep spirituality left a lasting impact on everyone who knew him.
Reflecting on his passing, Tulsa and Eastern Oklahoma Bishop David Konderla expressed gratitude for the path Slattery paved, saying, “I was blessed to follow in his footsteps… I will remember him with fondness and prayer.”
Slattery’s influence extended far beyond his own time in the diocese, leaving a legacy of compassion and dedication to his faith.
Fond Remembrances
Peter Wells, the Apostolic Nuncio who grew up in Oklahoma and was ordained in the Diocese of Tulsa, shared how deeply he was affected by Slattery’s death.
“Bishop Slattery will be fondly remembered for his many initiatives, his compassion for the poor, and his profound spiritual guidance,” Wells said, echoing the sentiments of many who admired his leadership.
The diocese expressed its condolences to Slattery’s family, as well as to all those grieving his loss.
He will be remembered as a man who led with both heart and wisdom.
Humble Beginnings
Slattery’s journey began in Chicago, where he was born on August 11, 1940, to a family of Irish immigrants.
He grew up in a modest home, the second of seven children, and from an early age, he felt drawn to the priesthood.
His education at Quigley Preparatory Seminary in Chicago set him on the path that would lead to his long and meaningful career in the church.
A Life Dedicated to Service
Slattery was ordained a priest in 1966 and began his ministry as an associate pastor in South Holland, Illinois.
His career quickly expanded beyond parish work.
By the 1970s, Slattery was involved in the Catholic Church Extension Society, eventually becoming its president.
His time there was marked by his deep commitment to supporting underprivileged communities.
As the leader of the Diocese of Tulsa, Slattery’s accomplishments were numerous.
He played a pivotal role in the expansion of Catholic Charities, the establishment of tuition assistance programs for Catholic families, and the founding of a monastery and pastoral institute in northeastern Oklahoma.
His leadership helped raise millions for the diocese, ensuring that his vision for the future of the community would thrive.
Controversy and Accountability
However, Slattery’s tenure was not without controversy.
In 1995, he reinstated Father Kenneth Lewis, who had been accused of sexual misconduct.
This decision was later regretted by Slattery, who admitted he would have acted differently had he known more about the situation.
Lewis was eventually convicted and sentenced to prison for further offenses.
A Fond Farewell
In 2016, Pope Francis accepted Slattery’s resignation as bishop when he reached the age of 75, in accordance with canon law.
Despite stepping down from active duty, Slattery continued to serve as bishop emeritus, remaining a respected figure in the diocese until his passing.
Bishop Slattery is survived by his siblings, who will gather with family, friends, and the clergy for his funeral at Holy Family Cathedral in Tulsa on September 28.
Archbishop Wells expressed gratitude for his years of service, stating, “I give thanks to God for his many years of faithful service as a priest and bishop.”