Philosophy Seminar, 1970: Father Owen Carroll on the right, with his hand raised, guides discussion. / Photo courtesy SMC Archives
Remembering Father Owen Carroll
He taught Philosophy, Theology, and Collegiate Seminar at Saint Mary’s for over Fifty Years, and he was “a teacher of unusual power and originality.”
I am sorry to share the news that one of our long-time and devoted colleagues, Father Owen Carroll, passed away on June 26, 2024.
Father Owen Carroll joined the Saint Mary’s College community in 1967 and taught Philosophy, Theology, and Collegiate Seminar for over 50 years. He was a perpetual scholar with an extraordinary academic background, and in 1973 received ordination as a Roman Catholic priest. He was described as a master of the Catholic intellectual tradition, and his teaching has informed generations of students in all walks of life—some of whom are now scholars, authors, and clergy.
When he was appointed chair of the Philosophy Department, the vice president said of him, “He is intelligent, able, committed, and sensible, a person of both humane and deeply Catholic vision.” Considered by his colleagues as “a teacher of unusual power and originality,” Father Carroll captured the minds and hearts of many students through his classes in Philosophy, his dedication to the arts, and his personal counseling. He applied for and received permission to celebrate the liturgy in both the Roman and Byzantine rites, evidence of his interests in a broad spectrum of philosophical, religious, and cultural studies and practices.
Our sincere condolences to all of those at Saint Mary’s whose lives were touched by Father Owen Carroll. A beloved colleague and caring teacher, he will be greatly missed.