Father John Oswald, 90, died June 10

Published: June 12, 2026

Father John Connell, vicar general and moderator of the curia for the Diocese of Little Rock, released the following letter regarding the death of Father John Oswald on Thursday, June 11, 2026.

"Dear Priests, Deacons, and Diocesan Employees:

"With faith and hope in the promise of eternal life in Christ Jesus, I announce the death of Father John Oscar Oswald. Father John died peacefully on Wednesday, June 10, 2026. He was 90 years old. He was preceded in death by his parents and three brothers, including Msgr. Richard Oswald. He is survived by a sister, Johanna, and two brothers, Fred and Mark, nine nieces and nephews and four great nieces and nephews.

"Father John was ordained a priest by Bishop Fletcher on May 27, 1961. He celebrated his 65th anniversary this year. His ministry in the diocese included being on the faculty of Catholic High until 1981, with residence in various Little Rock parishes including Immaculate Conception in North Little Rock, the Cathedral of St. Andrew, St. Mary in North Little Rock and Christ the King in Little Rock.

"He had several stints on the Clergy Welfare Board. Father John took a leave of absence in August of 1981, to teach math in the Department of Defense School System in Turkey, Italy, Bermuda and South Korea. He also lived outside Arkansas until returning to the diocese in 1997 after some health issues. He was given senior priest status in late 1999. Since retirement, Father John lived at St John Manor until he was moved to the Parkway Village Nursing Center.

"The funeral services are planned for Monday, July 6 at the Cathedral of St. Andrew. There will be a rosary at 9:30 a.m. followed by the funeral Mass at 10 a.m. and then burial at Calvary Cemetery in Little Rock.

"Please keep Father John’s family in your prayers. As is our custom, all priests are asked to offer three Masses for the repose of the soul of Father John Oswald. And may his soul and the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God,
rest in peace.

"Sincerely,
Rev. John M. Connell
Vicar General/Moderator of the Curia"