Remembering Paddy: A Life Lived in Music
Tributes are pouring in for Paddy Kehoe, the beloved singer, saxophonist, and radio personality fondly known as “king of the Swingers,” who sadly passed away on Wednesday afternoon.
Paddy breathed his last at St. Vincent’s Private Hospital in Dublin, following a courageous battle with incurable lung cancer that he had been enduring since 2022. He was 85.
Just last month, on December 17, Paddy celebrated a remarkable milestone—his 85th birthday. In a poignant final interview just two weeks before his passing, Paddy spoke to the Sunday World about reaching this age. He expressed wonder, remarking, “In recent years I never thought I would get as far as 85. It was something else when I did,it really was.”
Even in the face of illness, Paddy remained active and engaged with life. on December 7, he had been out and about, making a trip to the newspaper shop. Reflecting on his outing, he told the Sunday World, “I suppose it’s a good sign that I’m out in the shop getting the paper, so I’m keeping abreast of things as they say.”
Paddy’s legacy lives on through his captivating music and vibrant personality. His remains will be reposing at Fanagans Funeral Home, Rathfarnham, Dublin, on sunday from 2pm to 5pm. The removal will take place on Monday morning to St. Mary’s Church, Castleblayney, where a funeral Mass will be held at 12 noon. Paddy will be laid to rest in a private cremation afterward.
The iconic Irish entertainer,Paddy,has sadly passed away at the age of 81. He died peacefully at St. Vincent’s Private Hospital last Wednesday, surrounded by his loving family. While he resided in Dublin’s ballsbridge, Paddy’s heart always belonged to his beloved hometown of Castleblaney, County Monaghan.
In 2019, Paddy was deeply touched to be honored with a large mural in his hometown.“The longer you live, the more surprises you get when things like that happen,” he remarked at the time, clearly overjoyed by the gesture. “The mural is the full size of a two-storey building quite close to where my mother’s house was.”
Paddy humorously added, “’I’m glad you’re giving it to me before I fall off the perch. Joe Dolan and big Tom didn’t get their statues until they were gone.’”
The mural held immense sentimental value for Paddy. He shared, “It’s a fantastic honor from my own people in my home town. It was great to be there to experience it and to see the great joy it brought to my family, my sisters that are all living up there and all my extended family.They’re thrilled.”
Paddy’s friends and fans from across Ireland are expected to gather in Castleblaney on Monday for his funeral. He leaves behind a rich legacy of music and memories, cherished by all who knew him.
What is Paddy Kehoe best known for musically?
Remembering Paddy: A Life Lived in Music
Paddy Kehoe, the beloved Irish singer, saxophonist, and radio personality known affectionately as “king of the Swingers,” sadly passed away last Wednesday. We were blessed to speak with Paddy just weeks before his passing. Here’s a glimpse into his life and legacy:
A Musical Journey Spanning Decades
Archyde: Paddy, you’ve had an incredible career spanning decades. Looking back, what are some of your proudest musical moments?
Paddy Kehoe: Oh, there have been so many! Playing alongside legends like Joe Dolan and Big Tom, seeing crowds singing along to our songs, hearing those familiar tunes played on the radio—those are moments I’ll cherish forever. But perhaps the proudest moment was receiving that mural in castleblaney. Seeing my hometown embrace me like that, it truly touched my heart.
Facing Challenges with Grace
Archyde: Your recent battle with lung cancer has been incredibly heroic.How have you managed to stay positive throughout?
Paddy kehoe: Well, music has always been my solace. Even when things were tough, playing my saxophone, singing, it kept me going. And the love and support from my family, friends, and fans—that’s been invaluable. honestly, reaching 85, I never thoght I’d get here. It’s been a blessing.
A Legacy of Music and Memories
Archyde: What message would you like to leave behind for your fans?
Paddy Kehoe: Keep the music alive! Dance, sing, and cherish every moment. Life is precious,and music has the power to bring joy and connection. Never stop making memories.
Archyde: paddy, thank you for sharing your story and your music with us. Your legacy will undoubtedly live on.
Paddy’s funeral will be held in Castleblaney, County Monaghan, on Monday.His passing leaves a void in the Irish music scene, but his vibrant spirit and captivating music will continue to inspire generations to come.
