The longstanding supporter of Irish country music and veteran firefighter Johnny Barry has passed away.
How Did Kilkenny’s Johnny Barry Die?
Johnny Barry, a legendary Kilkenny broadcaster, died quietly at home.
Without him, local radio will never be the same. He sold newspapers, worked as a fireman, and worked in theatres over the years, but his most well-known position was in radio. For many years, his voice on the radio was instantly recognisable.
His show, a mainstay on the radio, giving both emerging and more established artists a platform while also keeping many people company in the late-night hours.
He was a kind and giving coworker who shared knowledge and advice freely. He also adopted new technologies one of the quickest in the industry.
Just before his 80th birthday in May, a Mayoral Reception was held, and family, friends, and admirers were invited (you can listen to their tributes below).
This afternoon (Friday) from 4 to 6 p.m., a special presentation about Johnny featuring many of the people who knew and loved him will air.
His funeral arrangements have not yet been made public; when they are, you can discover them here.
KCLR Condolences on Johnny Barry death
KCLR announces the passing of dear friend and coworker Johnny Barry with great sadness.
At his Kilkenny City home earlier today, Johnny passed away peacefully.
Johnny, a city native, celebrated his 80th birthday in June of this year and announced his retirement from his weekly Sunday evening slot on the station with a star-studded tribute show where some of the biggest names in Irish music and some of his thousands of fans recognised his unique contribution to broadcasting as well as to Country and Irish Music.
Johnny Barry Show
Since leaving his regular programme, Johnny had served as the station’s country and Irish ambassador. He had also broadcast a special All Ireland Edition of the wildly successful Johnny Barry Show, which would turn out to be his final programme on the air.
The people of Kilkenny had also honoured Johnny upon his retirement when the then-mayor, Cllr. Andrew McGuinness, hosted a special reception in his honour to acknowledge his contribution to Kilkenny life over a long period of time.
Johnny special radio show on KCLR on his 80th birthday
Johnny recently turned 80 years old, and to honour the milestone, he hosted a special radio show on KCLR. His contributions to broadcasting were also recognised earlier this year at a mayoral reception. He was a devoted Kilkenny native who was born in Stephen Street.
Among those who paid tribute to Johnny was Pat Fitzpatrick, the cathaoirleach of the Kilkenny County Council.
“Everyone who knew him will sincerely miss him. He was always in excellent spirits when you ran into him on the street, the man claimed.
The fun he gave over the years and his contribution to local music are priceless. People of all ages listened to Johnny before going to bed.
Johnny Barry Tribute show on KCLR
Johnny, a former firefighter and projectionist, had been a part of KCLR from its inception in 2004. Prior to it, he also broadcast on Radio Kilkenny and the pirate station AMS.
Chief Executive of KCLR John Purcell said in a statement following the sad news’ announcement: “Johnny Barry was an absolute legend in Irish radio, and all of us at KCLR, along with his tens of thousands of fans in Kilkenny, Carlow, and beyond, are shocked and deeply saddened by the news of his sudden passing. Last week, he was in excellent shape and at the station for a meeting where he discussed future plans. Knowing that he had the chance to hear what he meant to people of all ages and ethnicities in June gives us peace.
Also read: How Did Michael Redfern Die?
In the coming days, KCLR will air special tributes to Johnny, and viewers will be able to post notes and memorials on the KCLR website.
To Johnny’s brother Kevin, sister Mary, and nieces and nephews, John Purcell said: “On behalf of everyone at KCLR, his numerous friends in the broadcasting and entertainment industries, and on behalf of his many thousands of followers, I would like to extend our profound sadness. His like won’t be seen again. Go raibh sé, Ar dheis Dé.
In due course, details regarding Johnny Barry’s funeral service will be released.
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