By Dan Walsh
Although a solicitor by profession, Garry Lombard was best known for his lifetime of devotion to theatrical matters, both on and off the stage, and the thespian community are shocked at the news of his passing on Wednesday night. He was aged 84 years.
A founder and director of Gorey Little Theatre, Garry was an award-winning actor who was involved in over a hundred productions. One of his personal proudest performances was starring on stage with his son, Garrett Lombard, in the play Tuesdays with Morrie at last year’s summer plays series in Gorey Little Theatre.
Garry was also a director of the South Leinster Drama Festival, an executive member of the Amateur Drama Council of Ireland, an associate of the Leinster School of Music and Drama and a member of the Association of Drama Adjudicators.
Many tributes have been paid. A statement issued by Gorey Little Theatre said; “We are truly heartbroken at the passing of our beloved Garry Lombard. Garry was a founding member of Gorey Little Theatre. He was one of the finest actors Wexford has ever had. His passion for theatre was immense and his support and guidance over the years has been incredible. A wonderful mentor to all and especially younger actors starting out. He had a great wit and sense of humour and the best of company. A wonderful friend, a true gentleman of a very special kind. A beautiful life to be celebrated. Our thoughts are with Veronica, Aoife, Garrett, Rionagh, Ross and Tomàs, his gorgeous grandchildren, extended family and friends.”
This writer has great memories of Garry Lombard; “Over many decades I broadcast many radio interviews and published newspaper articles, usually around times of festivals and events happening at Gorey Little Theatre and Garry was always available and the consummate professional who appreciated the opportunity to promote Gorey Little Theatre and encourage patrons to recognise the importance of the theatre to the town,” said Dan Walsh.
FAMILY NOTICE; The death has occurred of GARRY LOMBARD, Avenue House, The Avenue, Gorey; Garry died peacefully on the 4th May at Gorey District Hospital surrounded by his loving family and the staff of Gorey Hospital.
Beloved husband of Veronica and loving father of Aoife, Garrett, Rionagh, Tomás, Ross and the late baby Niamh, brother of Marian, Tommy, Johnny, Maeve and the late Brian. Will be deeply missed by his wife, sons, daughters, sisters, brothers, grandchildren Geroid, Realtín, Phoebe, Grace, Niamh, Donal and Cuan-Garry., son-in-law P.J., brothers-in-law Tommy, Freddie, Peter, sisters-in-law Margie, Frances, Angela, Rena and Bernadette, extended family, relatives, and friends. May He Rest In Peace.
Reposing at Murphy’s Funeral Home, The Avenue, Gorey on Friday from 2 pm until 6 pm. Removal from his Home on Saturday 6th May at 1.30 pm to St. Michael’s Church Gorey for Funeral Mass at 2 pm followed by Burial in St. Michael’s Cemetery, Gorey.
Family Flowers only please. Donations if desired to the Friends of Gorey District Hospital. House Private Please.
WexfordLocal.com 