Musician Dermot is remembered
ONE of County Wexford’s most respected musicians and singers has been remembered at a tribute night in Mary Barry’s Pub in Kilmore.
Dermot Kelly, from Ballask, passed away in July and last week family members, relatives and friends from the world of entertainment gathered together to remember him in the best and most appropriate way possible - through music.
Mr Kelly was originally from New Ross but grew up in Wexford town. A formidable musician he was a stalwart of the Wexford and Irish showband scene for many years and was well known all over the country.
Although he graced the stages of many venues throughout the country he was intrinsically linked to Mary Barry’s and during the tribute night fond memories were recalled of the numerous gigs there in which he played a pivotal role.
The high regard in which he was held was underlined by the large crowd of people who came together in the venue to honour his memory.
A large number of musicians performed on the night - many of whom had also performed alongside Mr Kelly for many years in his various bands - including members of the jazz band with whom his name was synonymous. They included Don Sadler, Ger Griffin, Gary Maguire and Tommy McCann while other well known musicians and friends of Mr Kelly who performed included Toddy Walsh, Lar Kenny, Marty Kinsella, Pat Kelleher, Ger Busher and Mary Barry’s chef, Nicky Cullen.
In addition to being a tribute night the event, which was organised by Mr Kelly’s good friend Padge Cullen, was also a benefit night for Kilmore Old Folks Club.
Mr Kelly was the club’s entertainer for many years and he was held in very high regard with everyone involved with the organisation. Therefore it was very fitting that the money raised on the night will go towards it.
The organisers were delighted with how the night went and thanked everyone involved in making it a success. Kilmore Old Folks Club also expressed gratitude to everyone who performed.
While the Kilmore organisation was the direct beneficiary the night was a fitting tribute to an extremely popular musician, friend and family man.