Irish music stars died at age 62
Here are 10 famous musicians from Republic of Ireland died at 62:
Fred Kiernan
Fred Kiernan (July 7, 1919 Dublin-December 1, 1981 Southampton) was an Irish personality.
He was best known for his career as an Irish football player and coach. Kiernan played as a forward for various Irish clubs including Shamrock Rovers and Bohemians. He was known for his impressive speed and ball control skills, which earned him the nickname "The Flying Kiernan".
After retiring from playing, Kiernan became a coach and managed several teams including Shamrock Rovers, St. Patrick's Athletic, and Sligo Rovers. He was also a coach for the Irish national team and led them to their first ever victory over England in 1949.
In addition to his football career, Kiernan was also an actor, appearing in several films including "This Other Eden" and "The Rising of the Moon". He later became a football commentator for RTÉ and was known for his colorful and informative insights into the game.
Kiernan's legacy in Irish football has been honored with several awards including induction into the FAI Hall of Fame in 2007.
Fred Kiernan was born on July 7, 1919, in Dublin, Ireland. He was raised in a large family in Dublin's inner city and attended the local Christian Brothers school. During his youth, Kiernan developed a passion for football and began playing for local clubs. He quickly gained a reputation as a fast, skillful forward and was signed by Shamrock Rovers in 1938. Over the course of his career, Kiernan played for several Irish clubs, including Bohemians, Limerick, Cork Athletic, and Shelbourne.
Kiernan's playing career was interrupted by World War II, during which he served in the British Army. After the war, he returned to Ireland and resumed playing for Shamrock Rovers, where he became a fan favorite. In total, he scored 106 goals in 201 appearances for the club.
After retiring from playing in the early 1950s, Kiernan turned his attention to coaching. He quickly established himself as one of the top coaches in Ireland and led several teams to success. He also served as a coach for the Irish national team, where his innovative tactics and attention to detail helped the team achieve some of its greatest successes.
In addition to his football career, Kiernan was also a successful actor. He appeared in several films, including "The Rising of the Moon," which was directed by legendary filmmaker John Ford. Kiernan's on-screen charisma and natural acting ability made him a popular figure both in Ireland and abroad.
Kiernan was also an accomplished football commentator and analyst. His insights and colorful commentary helped to popularize the sport in Ireland and he was widely respected for his knowledge and passion for the game.
Fred Kiernan died on December 1, 1981, in Southampton, England, at the age of 62. His legacy in Irish football and culture has been honored with several awards and accolades, including induction into the FAI Hall of Fame in 2007.
Read more about Fred Kiernan on Wikipedia »
Jackie Vernon
Jackie Vernon (September 26, 1918 Belfast-August 24, 1981 Belfast) was an Irish personality.
Jackie Vernon was an Irish-American comedian, actor, and voice-over artist born in Belfast, Ireland. He is best known for his deadpan humor and his appearances on The Ed Sullivan Show and The Tonight Show. In addition to his successful career in stand-up comedy, Vernon also appeared in a number of films and television shows, including the popular sitcom The Dick Van Dyke Show. He also lent his voice to several animated TV series and movies, most notably as the voice of Frosty the Snowman in the well-known 1969 Christmas television special. Vernon passed away of a heart attack in 1981 at the age of 62.
Vernon began his career in show business as a trumpet player in various jazz bands. His natural talent for comedy was discovered by accident when one night he started improvising funny jokes during a band's performance. He soon became a regular stand-up comedian in New York City comedy clubs, where he developed his unique, deadpan style. His comedy routines often revolved around his personal experiences and observations, and he was known for his ability to make audiences laugh with just a facial expression or a pause.
In addition to his acting and voice-over work, Vernon was an accomplished writer and producer. He wrote comedy scripts for TV shows and movies, and he even produced and directed his own TV special, titled "The Wonderful World of Jackie Vernon."
Despite his success in show business, Vernon remained a relatively private person throughout his life. He was married to his wife, Rita, for over 40 years, and they had two children together. Vernon's legacy as a comedic talent and voice actor continue to be celebrated today, with his memorable performance as Frosty the Snowman remaining a beloved part of many people's holiday traditions.
Read more about Jackie Vernon on Wikipedia »
Tom Horan
Tom Horan (March 8, 1854 Midleton-April 16, 1916 Malvern) was an Irish personality.
He is best known for being a cricketer and a journalist. In fact, he was a pioneer in sports journalism and was the first to report on cricket matches in a detailed and analytical way.
Horan began his cricket career as a teenager in his hometown and quickly gained a reputation for being an exceptional player. He went on to represent the Irish national team and later played for Australia, where he became a popular sports figure.
Horan's love for journalism led him to become a sports writer for several newspapers, including The Sydney Morning Herald and The Melbourne Argus. His insightful and meticulous reporting helped revolutionize sports journalism in Australia and paved the way for future generations of sports writers.
In addition to his successful sports career, Horan was also a successful businessman and owned several pubs and hotels throughout his life.
Despite his accomplishments, Horan's life was cut short at the age of 62 due to heart failure. However, his legacy as a cricketing legend and pioneering sports journalist lives on to this day.
Horan was a true all-rounder and his contribution to the world of cricket and sports journalism was immeasurable. He was widely respected for his sportsmanship and his unwavering dedication to the game. In recognition of his cricketing achievements, Horan was inducted into the Australian Cricket Hall of Fame in 2005. He was a key figure in establishing the sport of cricket in Australia and his legacy continued to inspire future generations of cricketers.
Horan was also known for his philanthropic work and was actively involved in charitable causes throughout his life. He was a patron of several organizations that aimed to improve the lives of disadvantaged children and families in Australia. His generosity and kindness towards those in need earned him the nickname "Gentleman Tom."
Horan was survived by his wife and five children. He was given a state funeral in Melbourne, and his loss was mourned by people from all walks of life, including cricketers, sports journalists, and politicians. To this day, he is remembered as one of the greatest cricketers and sports journalists to have ever lived, and his legacy continues to inspire future generations.
Read more about Tom Horan on Wikipedia »
Sean Boru
Sean Boru (March 20, 1953 Ireland-April 5, 2015) was an Irish actor.
He was best known for his portrayal of Uncle Tommy in the popular Irish TV series, "Glenroe." Boru had a prolific career in Irish theater and also appeared in several Irish films and TV shows, including "Ros na Rún" and "Fair City." Born in County Clare, Boru began acting in his late teens and went on to study at the Abbey Theatre School of Acting. Outside of his professional work, Boru was involved in activism, particularly in the fight against Ireland's anti-gay laws. He passed away in 2015 at the age of 62.
Boru was also a talented musician and played the tin whistle, guitar, and bodhrán. In addition to his work on stage and screen, he was a passionate supporter of the Irish language and was involved in numerous cultural organizations. Boru was also a prominent member of the LGBTQ+ community in Ireland and campaigned tirelessly for equal rights. He was a founding member of the Gay and Lesbian Equality Network (GLEN) and played a key role in the successful campaign for the legalization of same-sex marriage in Ireland in 2015. Boru was widely mourned after his death, with many of his colleagues and friends paying tribute to his talent, energy, and commitment to social justice.
Read more about Sean Boru on Wikipedia »
Denys Rhodes
Denys Rhodes (July 9, 1919 Republic of Ireland-October 30, 1981) also known as Denys Gravenor Rhodes was an Irish writer and novelist. He had one child, Sharon Gurney.
During his lifetime, Denys Rhodes wrote several novels such as "Farmer in the Dark" and "The Diamond Fortress". He also contributed to several publications including The Observer and The Guardian. Over the years, he established himself as an influential figure in the literary world, earning praise for his unique writing style and ability to explore complex themes. Aside from his writing, Rhodes was also known for his involvement in the political scene, advocating for left-wing causes and progressive policies. He was a vocal opponent of the Vietnam War and supported the civil rights movement. Despite his passing, his legacy continues to live on, inspiring new generations of writers and activists.
Rhodes was born in Dublin, Ireland, and grew up in an artistic family. His mother was a painter and his father was a writer. He attended Trinity College Dublin before serving in World War II with the British Army. After the war, he worked briefly as a factory worker before devoting himself to writing full-time. In addition to his novels, Rhodes also wrote short stories and poetry, and was awarded the Guinness Poetry Prize in 1957. He spent much of his later life in France, where he continued to write and became involved in the French Communist Party. Despite his political beliefs, Rhodes was known to be critical of the Soviet Union and its policies. He was survived by his daughter Sharon Gurney and is remembered as a significant figure in Irish and British literature.
He died in lung cancer.
Read more about Denys Rhodes on Wikipedia »
Richard D. Dunphy
Richard D. Dunphy (December 12, 1841 Ireland-November 23, 1904) was an Irish sailor.
He is best known for serving as the master of the RMS Titanic's sister ship, the RMS Olympic. Dunphy began his career at sea at a young age and worked his way up the ranks, eventually becoming a highly respected captain. He was chosen to command the Olympic due to his experience and skill. After the Titanic disaster, Dunphy was called upon to testify at the British inquiry into the sinking. He defended the actions of his fellow crew members and provided valuable insight into the safety procedures and protocols of the White Star Line. In addition to his career as a sailor, Dunphy was also known for his philanthropy and served on the board of several charities.
Dunphy was born in County Carlow, Ireland, and grew up in a family of sailors. He followed in his family's footsteps and began his own career as a sailor at the age of 16. He quickly rose through the ranks and was eventually hired by the White Star Line in 1899. He went on to captain several of their ships, including the Oceanic and the Adriatic, before being appointed as the master of the Olympic in 1911.
During his time as captain of the Olympic, Dunphy made several notable voyages, including the ship's maiden voyage from Southampton to New York in June 1911. The Olympic was the largest ship in the world at the time, and Dunphy was praised for his skill in navigating such a large vessel. However, the ship was involved in several accidents and collisions during its career, leading to its nickname as the "Old Reliable".
Following the sinking of the Titanic in April 1912, which was the Olympic's sister ship, Dunphy was called upon to testify at the British inquiry into the disaster. He was able to provide valuable insight into the safety procedures and protocols of the White Star Line, and his testimony helped to shape the future of maritime safety regulations.
In addition to his career as a sailor, Dunphy was also known for his philanthropy and community involvement. He was a member of several charities and served on the board of directors for the Sailors' Home and Bethel Mission in Liverpool. He was also a member of the Liverpool Seamen's Orphan Institution and the Liverpool Sailors' Children's Society.
Dunphy remained the captain of the Olympic until his retirement in 1914, and he passed away in November 1904 in Liverpool, England.
Read more about Richard D. Dunphy on Wikipedia »
John William Fenton
John William Fenton (March 12, 1828 Kinsale-April 28, 1890 California) was an Irish musician and military officer.
He began his musical career at age 16 as a bandmaster for the British Army in Dublin. Fenton later emigrated to the United States in 1852 and served as a bandmaster for the Union Army during the American Civil War. He received the rank of captain for his service and continued to serve in the army until his retirement in 1884. Fenton also contributed to the development of music in California, founding the Fenton Military Band and serving as the conductor of the San Francisco Symphony. He is considered a pioneer in the advancement of military band music in the United States.
In addition to his musical and military career, Fenton was also a skilled linguist and writer. He spoke several languages fluently, including German, French, Italian, and Spanish, and frequently translated songs and operas for the programs of his musical performances. Fenton was also a prolific writer and editor, contributing articles to various newspapers and magazines throughout his career.
Fenton's legacy in the world of music was long-lasting. He is best known for his contributions to the field of military band music, laying the groundwork for the establishment of a distinct and recognizable style that would come to be known as the American Military Band tradition. His compositions and arrangements are still performed by military bands and ensembles, and his influence can be seen in the work of many composers who followed in his footsteps.
Beyond his musical achievements, Fenton was also remembered for his personal qualities, including his generosity and his dedication to his family and friends. He was a beloved figure in the communities he served, and his impact on the cultural landscape of California and the United States continues to be felt to this day.
Read more about John William Fenton on Wikipedia »
Edwin Maxwell
Edwin Maxwell (February 9, 1886 Dublin-August 13, 1948 Falmouth) was an Irish actor.
Edwin Maxwell was known for his versatile acting skills in film and stage productions during the 1920s and 1930s. He began his acting career in British silent films and later moved to Hollywood in 1929, where he played numerous supporting roles in more than 100 feature films, including "Bringing Up Baby," "Dinner at Eight," and "Arsenic and Old Lace."
Maxwell was married to actress Allyn Jane McLerie, and they had a daughter together, actress Karin Booth. Apart from acting, Maxwell was also a writer, playwright, and director. He was a respected member of the theatrical community and was actively involved in promoting actors' rights and welfare.
In addition to his film work, Maxwell was also a prolific radio actor, appearing in numerous popular radio programs during the 1930s and 1940s. He was posthumously inducted into the Radio Hall of Fame in 2019 for his contributions to the medium.
Throughout his career, Edwin Maxwell was known for his distinctive voice and commanding presence onscreen, and he remains a respected figure in Hollywood history.
Maxwell was passionate about advocating for the rights and safety of actors, and was one of the founding members of the Screen Actors Guild, serving on its original board of directors. He also served as the chairman of the Guild's Welfare Committee, which worked to provide aid and support to actors and their families during times of need. In recognition of his contributions to the industry, Maxwell was posthumously awarded a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 1960.
Maxwell's talents extended beyond acting and activism. He wrote several plays, including "A Little Bit Different" and "A Contingent Fee," and also directed stage productions such as "The Show-Off." He was admired for his sharp wit and intelligence, and was a regular attendee of the Algonquin Round Table, a celebrated group of writers and intellectuals who met regularly in New York City in the 1920s and 1930s.
Despite his success in Hollywood, Maxwell never forgot his roots in Ireland, and he remained proud of his Irish heritage throughout his life. He was known for his generosity and kindness, and was beloved by his colleagues and friends in the entertainment industry. Today, he is remembered as a talented actor, writer, and advocate for actors' rights, whose contributions to the industry continue to be felt today.
He died as a result of cerebral hemorrhage.
Read more about Edwin Maxwell on Wikipedia »
Frank O'Connor
Frank O'Connor (September 17, 1903 Cork-March 10, 1966 Dublin) was an Irish writer, playwright and screenwriter.
Frank O'Connor was born as Michael Francis O'Connor in Cork, Ireland. He was the son of a baker and was raised in poverty. He left school at the age of 14 and worked various jobs including as a hotel porter and a barman.
However, in his spare time, he pursued his passion for writing and became a well-known author, best known for his short stories. He published his first collection of stories, "Guests of the Nation," in 1931, which became a critically acclaimed work. He went on to publish several more collections of stories including "Bones of Contention" and "The Lonely Voice."
In addition to his writing, O'Connor also worked as the literary editor of "The Irish Press" for a number of years. He also wrote plays, including "The Big Fellow," which was a dramatization of the life of Irish revolutionary leader Michael Collins.
Throughout his career, O'Connor received numerous awards for his writing, including the Irish Academy of Letters Award in 1952 and the International PEN Award in 1955. Today, he is considered one of the most important Irish writers of the 20th century.
O'Connor was also a translator, and he translated works from Irish to English, including the plays of Irish playwright Seán O'Casey. His own writing often explored themes of poverty, Irish identity, and the struggles of everyday people. His autobiographical work, "An Only Child," is a vivid and touching account of his childhood in Cork. He was also a prolific letter writer, corresponding with many fellow writers and friends, including William Butler Yeats and Ernest Hemingway. In addition, O'Connor taught at universities in both the United States and Ireland, including Harvard University and University College Dublin. He was married twice, first to a fellow writer, Eileen Gould, and then to Harriet O'Donovan Sheehy.
He died in myocardial infarction.
Read more about Frank O'Connor on Wikipedia »
James Quinn
James Quinn (March 17, 1819 County Kildare-August 18, 1881) otherwise known as James O'Quinn was an Irish clergy.
He was ordained as a Catholic priest in 1845 and became known for his advocacy for Irish independence during the 1840s and 1850s. Quinn also served as a chaplain in the American Civil War, where he earned the nickname "Father Abraham" for his support of the Union Army. In 1867, he was appointed as the bishop of the Diocese of Dublin and remained in that position for the rest of his life. During his time as bishop, Quinn played a key role in the establishment and development of Catholic schools in Ireland, as well as in the Church's efforts to alleviate poverty and homelessness. He was widely respected and admired for his dedication to social justice and his commitment to the Irish people.
Quinn was born in County Kildare, Ireland in 1819. He grew up in a Catholic family and showed a strong interest in the Church from a young age. After completing his education, he was ordained as a Catholic priest in 1845. Quinn quickly became involved in the movement for Irish independence, which was gaining momentum at the time. He became known for his fiery speeches and his calls for Irish Catholics to stand up for their rights.
During the American Civil War, Quinn served as a chaplain for the Union Army. He was widely respected by the soldiers for his bravery and his dedication to their welfare. Quinn also became known for his close association with President Abraham Lincoln, whom he supported throughout the war. It was during this time that Quinn earned his famous nickname, "Father Abraham."
After the war, Quinn returned to Ireland and resumed his work as a Catholic priest. In 1867, he was appointed as the bishop of the Diocese of Dublin. As bishop, Quinn played a key role in the establishment of Catholic schools in Ireland, which were designed to provide education to the country's poor and disadvantaged children. He also worked tirelessly to alleviate poverty and homelessness, and was widely regarded as a champion of social justice.
Quinn died in 1881, at the age of 62. He was mourned by Catholics throughout Ireland and the wider world, who recognized his contributions to the Church and to the cause of social justice. Today, he is remembered as one of Ireland's most beloved bishops and a passionate advocate for the rights of the Irish people.
Read more about James Quinn on Wikipedia »