John championed music, culture and tourism

By Dan Walsh

Tributes have been paid to John Murphy of Colfer’s Pub, Carrig-on-Bannow, an internationally renowned musician and lifelong champion of culture and tradition, who has sadly passed away.

John was best known to many as the organiser of the annual Phil Murphy Weekend, launched in July 1992, which brought leading traditional musicians to Carrig-on-Bannow each July.

John and Pip (his brother) were recently honoured by the Eugene O’Neill International Festival of Theatre.

Cllr Jim Codd admired John for many traits. “What he did for music, culture and tourism could not be quantified. His name was known wherever the harmonica was played and he was on first name terms with international stars. It has been a pleasure to know The Great John Murphy. I am sure he will be playing ‘The Trip To Cullenstown‘ with his father tonight,” added Cllr Codd.

Danescastle Music Group paying tribute on social media stated; John will be greatly missed by all of our musicians. He was instrumental in bringing world class musicians to Carrig and encouraged them to give workshops to our group. We were always welcome to play music in Colfer’s Pub. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam.

Locally, John has been described as “An amazing musician and a much-loved character in the community, John will be remembered for his warmth, friendship, generosity and love of good music and company, bringing great joy to many over the years.”

FAMILY NOTICE; The death has occurred of John Murphy, Ballygow, Bannow and Colfers, Carrig-on-Bannow, Co. Wexford. John passed away peacefully surrounded by his loving family in the care of The Oak Ward, Waterford University Hospital.

Beloved husband of Teresa (Tesie) and brother of Nick, Pat and Pip. John will be so sadly missed by his wife, brothers, sisters-in-law. brothers-in-law, nieces, nephews, godchildren, cousins, his loyal friend “Hammy”, extended family, neighbours and many friends.

May He Rest in Peace

Reposing in The Tin Sandwich Bar, Colfers, Carrig on Bannow, Co. Wexford (Y35VY10) from 4pm to 8pm on Tuesday, September 8th. Funeral Mass on Wednesday at 2pm in The Church of Mary Immaculate and St. Joseph, Carrig on Bannow followed by burial in St. Mary’s cemetery Kilmore.