A POPULAR vicar who was affectionately known as Canon Jim has died of pneumonia, aged 90.

Canon Jim O'Brien (pictured) was vicar of St Cuthbert's in Darwen and also the town's rural dean. He lost his battle for life on Thursday afternoon.

He is best known for his time at St Aidan's Church in Mill Hill, Blackburn, where he became a popular member of the community.

Mr O'Brien, originally from Eire, leaves a wife, Joyce, two daughters, five grandchildren and six great- grandchildren.

He lived in Mill Hill with Joyce, 93, who has been blind for nearly 50 years.

Mrs O'Brien said: "He was a wonderful husband and father. A lot of people will miss him because he was such a kind and helpful man."

During his career he worked for the Church Army in London, Chorley and Northern Ireland.

He was ordained in 1944 at Blackburn Cathedral, before becoming curate of St John's Church, Blackburn. He was installed as a canon in 1973 and was also an honorary assistant curate at Adlington in the 70s.

His funeral will take place at St Aidan's Church at noon on Tuesday, April 18.

The Rev Alan Fishwick said: "He was dedicated to the parish of St Aidan's and the church in general.

"He attended twice a week without fail. Just a week before he died we dedicated the new kitchen at the church to his ministry.

"It is now the O'Brien kitchen. He really was inspirational and a lovely, gentle man."

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