Rev. Msgr. William J. Haughney

On September 21, 2019 Rev. Msgr. William J. Haughney, beloved brother, uncle and friend, passed away at the age of 98.

William was born on April 14, 1921 to William and Julia (Cantwell) Haughney in Morristown, NJ. He was the oldest priest in the Diocese of Metuchen and celebrated 72 years in the priesthood.

He grew up in Madison during the Great Depression and was determined to get a good education to achieve his goals. He graduated from Seton Hall with a degree in philosophy in 1939 and then went on to complete his studies at Immaculate Conception Seminary in Darlington. He was ordained a priest in 1947 and later resumed his education at Princeton Theological Seminary where he received his master’s degree.

Some of William’s hobbies included golf, bowling, walks with his canine companions and traveling – especially to his native Ireland with his mother and sister. He enjoyed holiday celebrations with his family in his homestead in Madison; which were always filled with lots of laughter and fun, especially if he was watching Benny Hill or Rodney Dangerfield with his nephews. He had a knack for telling jokes and found enjoyment in the simple pleasures of life. After dinner he could be found on the front porch savoring a good cigar, a good drink and a good read.

William always put the needs of others before his own. He was once quoted as saying,

“I can honestly say I got a lot of happiness out of serving people. I am rich, without having money.”

William is survived by his loving sister Alice McGuire (nee Haughney), his 4 nieces and 2 nephews: Kathleen (Scott), Patricia, Denise (Ken), Beth (James), John (Maria) and David. He is also survived by 7 grand nieces and nephews and 4 Great grand nieces and nephews.

William will be missed by his family, friends and colleagues.

A wake service will be held on Wednesday, September 25, 2019 at Our Lady of Mount Virgin Church in Middlesex from 3:00 pm to 6:45 pm. A Vigil Mass will be held at 7:30 pm on Wednesday evening. Public visitation will continue again on Thursday morning from 8:30 a.m. until 10:15 a.m. A Mass of Christian burial will be held at the church on Thursday, September 26, 2019 at 11:00 am. Burial will follow immediately after at St. Vincent Martyr Cemetery in Madison. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Monsignor Haughney's name to your favorite charity. All services are under the direction of the Sheenan Funeral Home, www.sheenanfh.com

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