Msgr. David Francis Budney, 83, former pastor, vicar general of the Diocese of Camden and a priest for more than 50 years, died March 30.
Msgr. Budney served as pastor at St. Michael, Cedarville, 1971-73; St. Margaret, Woodbury Heights, 1973-85; and St. Thomas More, Cherry Hill, 1985-2003.
From 1992-2000, he served as vicar general of the Diocese of Camden, first under Bishop James T. McHugh and, later Bishop Nicholas DiMarzio.
Msgr. Gerald Gallagher, who first met Msgr. Budney when the two were studying at St. Joseph’s Seminary, recalled a “quiet, smart” friend who loved to fish, spend time at his shore home in Cape May Point, and “was dedicated to the priesthood and loved his family.”
In his many ministries, Msgr. Gallagher said, “nothing ever bothered” Msgr. Budney. “He was always cool, calm, and collected,” he said
“He always rose to the occasion, in whatever he was doing,” Msgr. Gallagher added.
A native of New York, Msgr. Budney was ordained a priest in the Diocese of Camden in June 15, 1957. His first assignment was as parochial vicar at St. Joseph Church in East Camden, where he served for one year.
His other parish assignments included Our Lady Star of the Sea, Atlantic City,1958-59; St. John, Collingswood, 1959-61; and Our Lady Star of the Sea, Cape May, 1970-71.
In addition to parish duties, Msgr. Budney taught at Bishop Eustace Prep in Pennsauken, 1960-62; Camden Catholic, Cherry Hill, 1962-69, and during the summer of 1969 at Paul VI in Haddon Township.
He served on the diocese’s Commission on Social Justice; as treasurer of the Priest’s Council; on the advisory board of St. Pius X in Blackwood; as director of the Stewardship Program; as a member of the College of Consultors; and on the Presbyteral Council.
He retired in 2003.
A viewing will be held on Wednesday, April 9, 9-10:45 a.m. at Infant Jesus Parish, St. Margaret Church, Woodbury Heights. A Mass of Christian Burial will follow at
11 a.m.
Interment will be private.
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