Tributes pour in following the death of Seán Con Johnny

By Michelle Nicpháidín

Published 24th Apr 2023, 12:09 GMT

Updated 24th Apr 2023, 14:28 GMT

Photo: Aoife Feeney

placeholder image — Photo: Aoife Feeney

A gifted musician passes away in south Donegal

There is huge sadness in the villages of Teilinn, Carrick, Glencolmcille and further afield following the death of a much-loved and highly respected musician.

Seán Con Johnny Byrne from Aghragh, Teelin, was well-known for his musical talents in south Donegal and was often called upon to take centre stage at important musical events in the area.

News of his death caused great sadness among all those who knew him.

A fluent Irish speaker, Seán loved the company of singers and musicians and was often seen to play in his local the Rusty Mackerel. The musician is painted on one of the wonderful paintings on the outside walls of the popular pub.

placeholder image — A fluent Irish speaker, Seán loved the company of singers and musicians and was often seen to play in his local the Rusty Mackerel. The musician is painted on one of the wonderful paintings on the outside walls of the popular pub.

He was a gifted sportsman and was a strong swimmer and cyclist and was known to cycle from Teelin to Port.

Seán was honoured for his musical talents during the concert which was held for Kitty Sheáin, a talented singer, from his local area.

Fleadh Cheoil Chil Chartha took to social media to also pay tribute to the late musician. They said: "We are all saddened to hear of the death of Sean Con Johnny. He was a regular every year at the Fleadh sessions and every Tuesday night at the session in John Joe's Pub. He would stroll in guitar in hand and a smile on his face. His musical contribution will be remembered for years to come. Rest in Peace our dear friend."

placeholder image — Fleadh Cheoil Chil Chartha took to social media to also pay tribute to the late musician. They said: "We are all saddened to hear of the death of Sean Con Johnny. He was a regular every year at the Fleadh sessions and every Tuesday night at the session in John Joe's Pub. He would stroll in guitar in hand and a smile on his face. His musical contribution will be remembered for years to come. Rest in Peace our dear friend."

Seán could turn his hand to almost any musical instrument and knew the words of many songs.

One local said: "He was one of life's true gentlemen - he will be sorely missed."

Ar Dheis Dé go raibh a anam dhíl.

Tributes Carrick Glencolmcille Teelin

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