In a warm tribute Archbishop Robin Eames said: "It has been my privilege to know Bishop Hannon as a friend and colleague over many years. In Derry and Raphoe I greatly valued his pastoral care of Christ Church, Londonderry, where his priority in days of violence and disruption was the spiritual and practical support of his people. Those attributes soon came to the fore when he was appointed Bishop of Clogher.

"In the House of Bishops his fellow bishops saw something of the thoughtful and prayerful approach he always exhibited for the clergy and laity of that diocese. At a central level he undertook special responsibilities for education, community affairs and mission work. His contribution to debates was always well-informed and sensitive.

"His wife Maeve devoted much of her time to the G.F.S. And the Mothers' Union and was a constant support to his work in the diocese. Clogher diocese will miss his faithful ministry of leadership and pastoral support and the House of Bishops his well prepared presentations of the needs of his people. I wish Bishop Brian and Maeve many years of happiness in retirement."