James McDyer was born in Kilraine, Glenties, County Donegal, and was educated at St Eunan's College, Letterkenny, and Maynooth. During the Second World War, after his ordination in 1937, he worked in England with Irish immigrants. From there he was transferred to Tory Island, County Donegal, and remained a curate in Glencolumbkille from 1951 for twenty years. He was instrumental in having water and electricity brought to the area, and he instigated many co-operative projects to attract visitors and provide employment. He published his autobiography, Father McDyer of Glencolumbkille and The Glencolumbkille Story. In 1971 he was appointed parish priest of Carrick and Glencolumkille.

Born:	1911
Died:	1987