By Dan Walsh
Tributes are pouring in following news of the sad passing of Nancy Byrne, Tomsilla Lower, Gorey, who is described as “A lifelong member and President of Gorey Little Theatre and one of the finest actresses ever to grace a stage in Wexford and beyond.”
On social media Gorey Little Theatre were saddened by Nancy’s death and recalled how she played so many memorable roles over the years in Gorey’s summer plays, festival plays, pantomimes and other productions. She won numerous best actress awards, (including Best Actress in Athlone for All-Ireland Drama), and she embodied every role she played to perfection.
In later years she continued to support and encourage younger actors and actresses in their endeavours. She was also known for her written reflections of Gorey Little Theatre events which were very wittily scribed! She will be deeply missed by her many dear friends in Gorey Little Theatre. The curtain has closed but her wonderful legacy will live on in Gorey Little Theatre. “We are thinking of her daughters Michaela and Nicky and all her family at this sad time,” stated Gorey Little Theatre members and supporters.
Well-known and respected adjudicator Imelda McDonagh also paid a personal tribute. “I’m so sorry to hear of Nancy’s passing. A beautiful person who gave from her heart- in life and on stage. I was privileged to share the stage with her on several occasions, most notably in The Barrett’s of Wilmpole Street where she was absolutely magnificent, winning her the Best Actress award in Athlone. Sincere condolences to all of Nancy’s family.”
FAMILY NOTICE; The death has occurred of Nancy Byrne (née Beeton) Fairy Lane, Tomsilla Lower, Gorey, Wexford / Arklow, Wicklow. Peacefully at her daughter Michaela’s home. Wife of the late Michael, adored mother of Michaela (Kennedy) and Nicky (Maher), dearest mother-in-law of Gerry and the late Paul, devoted grandmother of Michael and her late Little Princess Lauren and sister of the late Monica, Danny and Mena. She will be sadly missed by her sorrowing daughters, son-in-law, grandson, brothers-in-law John (Noblett) and Roy (Byrne), sister-in-law Barbara (Byrne), her nieces Tee and Deirdre and all her beloved nephews and nieces, her extended family, neighbours and many dear friends from The Gorey Little Theatre Group and beyond. May she rest in peace.
Reposing at Sweeney’s Funeral Home, Arklow from 11 o’clock on Wednesday morning with a service in celebration of Nancy’s life to follow at 12 noon. Funeral afterwards to Courtown Cemetery, Riverchapel, Co Wexford.
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