Laurence Julius FitzSimon

Laurence Julius FitzSimon (January 31, 1895 – July 2, 1958) was an American prelate of the Roman Catholic Church. He served as bishop of the Diocese of Amarillo in Texas from 1941 until his death in 1958.

Biography

Early life Laurence FitzSimon was born on January 31, 1895, in San Antonio, Texas, to John and Theodora (née Okelmann) FitzSimon. His family moved to Castroville, Texas, the following year. In 1916, bad health forced FitzSimon to return to Texas.

After recuperating, FitzSimon enlisted in the United States Navy. He served as a pharmacist's mate on a minesweeper during World War I. After his ordination, the archdiocese assigned FitzSimon to the faculty of St. John's Seminary in San Antonio. In 1926, he left St. John's to serve as pastor of a parish in Runge, Texas.

FitzSimon was a chronicler of the history of Catholicism in Texas, gathering historical material on its bishops and clerics during trips to Rome and France. In 1951, Cardinal Pierre-Marie Gerlier awarded FitzSimon the title of Chanoine d'Honneur de la Primatiale (Canon of Honor of the Primate) in recognition of his scholarship. FitzSimon suffered a stroke in 1954, but was able to continue his work as bishop.

Death and legacy Laurence FitzSimon died on July 2, 1958, at St. Anthony's Hospital in Amarillo at age 63. He is buried in Llano Cemetery in Amarillo.