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With the wedding of Dermot's daughter (Deirdre) and my father (Fred), and even before that, Dermot and Ann went out of their way to make my sister and I feel welcomed into the family. We were brought into their life and their hearts. The world is a sadder place with his passing. He was a kind and caring man and will be missed dearly. I am so very proud to be part of their family.

~ Andrea Leafloor

I am deeply Saddened by the Passing of Dermot. I've never met a nicer, kinder or more gentle person. What a privilege it was to have him as a friend! He is gone but I will never forget Him. If I'm lucky, I'll see Him again when my time on earth is done!!

God Bless You Dermot!!
Slán mo speisialta cara!

Frank Maher

Dear Ann and girls:
Our hearts were saddened when we learned of Dermot's death. He brought so much joy to all who heard him play and sing. Heaven will be more heavenly with his gracious presence.

To his dear friends, Fergus and Denis:
You have lost a loving friend. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all.

Sincerely;
Walter and Maureen Finlay
St Shott's, NL

Dermot was a very special man, with a very special talent, but I want to talk more about the man, than his music. When you spoke to Dermot, he was always more interested in what was going on in your life than in his own. On a trip to Liverpool some time ago (heading to Ireland to visit his brothers), Dermot kindly said he’d throw a penny in the River Mersey for me. He said I had to give him the penny myself and when I did, he wrapped it in a Sons’ of Erin business card (this was just after the release of Sons’ of Erin “At it Again” c.d.). When he returned to St. John’s he told me he’d sang “I wish I was back in Liverpool” on the boat to Ireland and thought of me. That Christmas, in the card to Ford and I from he and Ann, was a picture of Dermot’s hand, over the rail of the boat, dropping the penny in from the business card to the water! I framed it straight away and it hangs in our kitchen. This was typical of Dermot – not just to think of nice things he could do for other people, but to actually do them – I can’t think of anyone else who would have thought to take that photograph! I feel privileged to have had Dermot as a friend and will always remember him, especially his lovely smile, with much love. Goodnight and God Bless Dermot. Hope you’re singing away in Heaven with Buddy Holly, with a Guinness in your hand!

(Angela Record – St. John’s, NL)

To Deirdre, Suzanne, Grainne, & Mrs. O'Reilly:

I wish to express my deepest sympathy of losing such a charming man, your dad and husband - Mr. O'Reilly. Our lost of this brilliant man is heaven's gain. I am sure he will be singing forever among the angels of heaven. We will miss his music and his wit.

Deirdre, I still have your father's autograph that you gave me over 20 years ago, it's kept in a safe place so I will always remember him.

I found this Irish poem -

"Remembered Joy"

****
Don't grieve for me, for now I'm free!
I follow the plan God laid for me.
I saw His face, I heard His call,
I took His hand and left it all...
I could not stay another day,
To love, to laugh, to work or play;
Tasks left undone must stay that way.
And if my parting has left a void,
Then fill it with remembered joy.
A friendship shared, a laugh, a kiss...
Ah yes, these things I, too, shall miss.
My life's been full, I've savoured much:
Good times, good friends, a loved-one's touch.
Perhaps my time seemed all too brief-
Don't shorten yours with undue grief.
Be not burdened with tears of sorrow,
Enjoy the sunshine of the morrow.


With heart felt sympathy,
Michelle Cole (Deirdre's high school classmate (1982)

We are deeply saddened by the passing of Dermot. We first met Dermot in the early 1990's when we were living on Fogo Island. Dermot was performing at the Brimstone Head Folk Festival and always paid a visit on the Sunday of that weekend to the Kelly’s at Joe Batt’s Arm. There, he and other musicians played and sang for Mrs. KELLY. It wasn’t until 1998 that we met Ann when she and Dermot stayed over for a night on their way to Fogo Island to the Folk Festival. Let us tell you that it was a treat as Dermot, talked, told stories and sang while we sat around the kitchen table. Time wasn’t a factor as we were so focused and thrilled at the flow of music and the intellect and professionalism exhibited by Dermot. Since then we have sat and listened to his music on a number of occasions at St. John’s and Clarenville. In particular we remember the night we stayed with Dermot and Ann at Torbay after being downtown. Dermot keep us up all night. Guess
what the topic of conversation and music was!! Buddy Holly. With sleepy eyes, we enjoyed every minute.

Dermot has had a great impact on traditional music and is without doubt an icon in the music industry. He was admired and respected by everyone, everywhere. His music and memory will live on forever.

Our deepest condolences to Ann, family and friends of Dermot.

A great musician, A Great Human Being, A FRIEND TO ALL.

Baker & Kelly
Clarenville, NL

Mom called me Saturday morning to tell me that Dermot had passed away. I still don't know if I really believe it because, although I had only met him once, he was a legend in my eyes. I remember my family telling me stories of nights at The Strand, listening to the music of Ryan's Fancy. I believe there were times that my dad would actually take to the floor when a lively tune would ring out! When I left home to head to MUN, I remember how
excited I was to hear Dermot play at The Blarney Stone. It was my first time seeing
him and Fergus live and you wouldn't know but I was seeing the biggest act in America! To me, they were celebrities, icons of their time and their music was as fresh that night as it was back in the 70's. Ironically, it was only a few days before his death that I put in a Ryan's Fancy CD, so as to hear that distinctive voice of Dermot's and what a voice it was. I know we can't live forever but I wish Dermot could have lived for many more years
because he brought so much joy into the lives of his fans. To Ann and his daughters: I don't know you but I feel so sad for your loss. What a wonderful joy to share your lives with a man who, I'm sure, was a wonderful husband and father.

To Fergus and Denis: please accept my condolences on the loss of your music partner and friend. Your beautiful harmony has been silenced on earth but, someday, you'll meet again and what a reunion that will be!!

Sherri Leighton, Halifax, NS
(formally Sherri Finlay, St. Shott's, NL)

Anne and Girls. Our hearts were saddened when we learned of Dermot's death. He
brought so much joy to all who heard him play and sing. Heaven will be more heavenly with his gracious presence. To his dear friends Fergus and Denis. You have lost a loyal friend. Our thoughts and prayers are with all of you .

Sincerely, Walter and Maureen Finlay,
St.Shotts

My sincere sympathy and condolences go to Ann and family. Dermot was a gentle man.
God bless and keep you strong.

Don Sullivan
(Sullivan's Gypsies)

"The time has come to say good-bye
to an "Old Soul" that has once again learned to fly.
Listen to the wind as it sweeps the sea and land
and you will hear him and Buddy Holly with their guitars in hand."

Many men are Husband, few are Partners.
Many men are Fathers, few are "Daddy".
Many men are Musicians, few are Idols and Mentors.
Many men are Kind, few are Genuine.
Many men have Friends and Family, few Cherish them.
Dermot was definitely one of the few and I am honoured to have known him.

When I moved back to the province in '96 I began working at Erin's Pub ('97) and with little family in the immediate area at the time, Dermot and Ann, along with Ralph, Fergus, Lisa, Mark and Family made sure I was part of theirs.
Will miss our dances, our drives, our talks (especially the ones of Labrador), Halloween with Rebecca (see Ann, he handed out the treats and I have the pictures to prove it! Hehehe), the philosophy, the voice, the free spirit and that smile.
The strength and love shown by Ann, Deirdre, Suzanne, and Grainne at the funeral home on Tuesday was amazing. As well as the courage and loving spirit of Fergus. They definitely have Dermot's infectious spirit and the girls have married similar spirits if Fred is any indication.

Will hold dear the memories and music and the honour of calling him my friend.
Lots of love
Kelly Waters, John Pennell and little Rebecca.

Deepest heartfelt condolences to Dermot's family and friends and sidekicks Fergus and Dennis. Dermot has left a legacy of wonderful memories, mischievous moments and beautiful music. Dermot was a musical icon and his music and memory will always be cherished by all so fortunate to be touched by him. Farewell friend. Thank you.

Charlotte and Vince MacLean
Washabuck, Cape Breton

I am sad to hear of Dermot's passing. He was a member of Ryan's Fancy, a truly great group. I saw them play many years ago in the Gym of the Old College of Trades and Technology, they were playing for the orientation of new students. Their singing was great and I loved it. The main memory I have from that day was when they played the song, "I Never Will Marry", I remember sitting there on the gym floor and swaying back and forth to that song, even singing parts of it...."I'll be no Man's Wife...., I really believed it then; Now 27 years later, I will soon be married 27 years and have two of the greatest kids in the world; Wanda Lee & William and a Son in Law, Micheal, along with a very sweet and cute grandson- Sean- 8 years (my daughter had to have the Irish spelling). And last but not
least I have a wonderful hubby, Kirk who I wouldn't trade in, he is just great and then someday he will pass and I can again sing "I never will Marry"... but add "again". As he has been my life sole-mate. I thank Ryan's Fancy for the music. May Dermot's family take comfort in knowing that he will be missed by you and all.

God Bless,
Maureen,
Gloucester, On.

Ann , Deirdre, Suzanne & Grainne,

Our Thought are with you all during this difficult time.
We will always treasure the happy memories and music of Dermot’s.
I will always remember the great time I had with you all on my trip to Torbay.

Hazel and Joe
Bansha, Co.Tipperary. Ireland

Denis,
Garth & Frances Cochran here. Just a short note to let you know we found out we lost a good friend -- Dermot. We've often thought of all of you and entertained hope that we might find a way to rekindle a friendship -- but not like this. In any case, we have so many good memories from (gawd) thirty years ago and more. We'll hoist a jar in memory of Dermot, indeed of all of you, and hope you will as well.

As ever
Garth & Frances Cochran
Calgary

To Anne, Deidre, Suzanne and Grainne:
It is with a full heart and tearful eye that I write on this sad occasion. Dermot's passing marks also the passing of an era for all of us who came of age with Ryan's Fancy or as that wise old clown, Ray Guy christened us Ryan's Fancy fanciers.
I first got to know Dermot when he was then part of Sullivan's Gypsies and so have many long memories - memories of many late nights at the Strand Lounge in the Avalon Mall with music, fun and friends. Often times we would leave the Strand in the wee hours and head off to a house party with Denis, Fergus and Dermot. I don't think that there was ever a bunch of young people who had so much fun.
Dermot introduced me to songwriters I hadn't heard of before such as Tom Paxton, Ralph McTell, and Pete St. John. I still listen to these wonderful songs and remember that it was Dermot I first heard them from. I would surely embarrass myself by singing along with "The Streets of London" my favourite. I always appreciated the way Dermot would credit the songwriter.
In 1974 a bunch of us friends joined Ryan's Fancy on their Irish tour. It left me with lasting memories and just recently revisited some of the same spots in Ireland.
To all of you in the words of "The Parting Glass" "Good night and God be with you all"
Dermot, thank you for allowing us to be part of your life. It was a wonderful show.

On behalf of my children Marianne and Damian and the Renews Chidley family, our heartfelt condolences.

Marie Chidley
Edmonton, Alberta

Dermot was the one who turned me on to Irish music 36 years ago. I was fighting cancer and he gave me an album -- Planxty. That music got me through some pretty hard times. Our families were friends for years until a few years after we moved to Calgary (where we still got together with the band on their occasional trips west) and, as inevitably happens, lost touch after Ryan's Fancy broke up. Now he's gone -- but not our memories of him.

Ann, wish we were there to help comfort you and to share our memories with you. We had some great times (Like Dermot and Hal Andrews singing Danny Boy by the fridge) or when the mummers crashed our Christmas party. Bless you and the girls.

Dermot, I'm certain you've already found the Céilidh.

Garth & Frances Cochran
Calgary, Alberta

I grew up, quite literally, with Ryan's Fancy. My parents used to go to hear them at the Strand Lounge in St. John's, and became friends with them all; they came to our home for meals and the occasional party. Then it was my turn, when I came of age--okay, nearly of age--to go to hear them at pubs, either back in St. John's when I went to visit after we moved to Nova Scotia, or at the Agricultural College where I was a student, and where they came to play more than one roarin' good time.

Dermot was a charmer, with the gift of storytelling as great as the gift of music, and I’m sure he could sing the birds right out of the trees and make the angels weep with joy. I was so glad that he kept on making such marvelous music after Ryan’s Fancy disbanded, and that he and Fergus were lifting the rafters in St. John’s just last week. Dermot brought us as Atlantic Canadians closer to our heritage of marvelous music—he and his bandmates Denis and Fergus were advocates of our musical heritage long before it was trendy to do so.

Dermot, my friend, "Thig crioch air an t-saoghal ach mairidh gaol agus ceòl" (An end will come of this world, but music and love will endure.) It's Scottish, rather than Irish, Gaelic, but the sentiment remains the same. I'll raise a Guinness to your memory and your legacy--long will they remain with us.

Jodi DeLong, MA
Scotts Bay, Nova Scotia

Dermot, his brother Eddy and myself shared a beer together at a Pub in
Dublin. I will never forget it!

My sincere condolences,
Sheldon Dedieu / Miller's Jug

The world has lost a wonderful troubadour, a genuine gentleman, and a
man who's influence on generations of singers, players, and listeners
of traditional irish music can never be forgotten. I and my bandmates
(Muldow) recorded a cd with Dermot a few years back, and for most of
us, it was our first time in a studio. Dermot and Ann treated us like
family from the first time we entered the doors of their home. We
will never forget the endless pots of coffee and Ann's homemade
cookies and cakes! Our condolences to the O'Reilly family, to Fergus
and his family, and all those who Dermot knew and touched, both
through his music and personal friendships. Farewell and God Bless.

Johnny Graham

Ann, my thoughts are with you and the family. I was honoured to call Dermot my friend he was one of the great ones and will be greatly missed.

Rest in peace my dear friend,
Bridget Noonan
Bay de Verde
 

My most sincere condolences to the O'Reilly family. Dermot was the reason many of us picked up a guitar or fiddle for the first time. He has left an outstanding legacy in Newfoundland performing arts that will never be forgotten. Class act all the way! He will be sadly missed.

:Jamie Wiseman
Gander, Newfoundland
 

My deepest sympathy and heartfelt condolences to the O'Reilly family. Dermot's music will always be a part of us all, he will be deeply missed.

Keith Brophy
Sherwood Park, AB (Ferryland,NL)
 

There's good Irish Music and then there's GREAT Irish Music!
Dermot, Fergus and Denis provided lots of great music.
Back in my drinking days in Toronto they were very patient with me and
generously allowed me to occasionally sing on stage with them at the
New Windsor House.

Their likes won't be seen nor heard again!

Harry Warner
 

To the O'Reilly Family, it is with a saddened heart that we hear of Dermot's passing. We are truly blessed to have had such a wonderful person touch our hearts. We will truly miss him!
Joy & Peter Barfoot
Mack Barfoot
 

As I read through the emails and thoughts people have posted, I am flooded with fond memories of being 5 years old in St. John's, where I was born. A recurring theme I read is this man's love not only of music, and the people who make it, but his charismatic character, and his appreciation of everyone, but especially of children. I think Dermot was my first crush, at the tender age of 5! My parents met "the boys" of Ryan's Fancy during an evening out at "The Strand". My father was a pilot for EPA, and the buys were "frequent flyers" long before that term had ever been invented! Dad always had a place for one of them back in the days when the skies were a safe place to be and the crew could welcome the public up to sit in the "jumpseat" to enjoy the flight from the cockpit. The visits to the Strand became a common social event for mom and dad, and then there was the 3 am spaghetti fests at our home on Winnipeg street after the pub closed. I would wake to everyone laughing and having a great time, and I remember sneaking out to the kitchen on more than one occasion to say hello - Dermot would always take some time to chat before I was sent packing back to bed. He became fondly known by me as "hippie", because I had never really known a man with long hair as he had back in the 70's, and I thought that was a good name for him! I remember being at his and Anne's home on one occasion when Grainne, his youngest, was just a baby - she had the sweetest little baby grin, and I was quite sure she was just a chip off the old block!
With my dad being a pilot, we moved frequently, and eventually settled in Nova Scotia. Dad continued to see the boys on his flights after EPA became CP Air, and we never forgot them, their music frequently played all weekend in our home - we had every LP they ever recorded. I was a fan of Irish music when it was really not a very cool thing for a young kid to do. I wrote to Dermot when he recorded "Brand New Song" and told him how much I loved that tune - it made me happy just to listen to it and kept my toes tapping - he reciprocated by sending me their songbook, signed by all of them - it is a treasure I will always cherish, dog eared and with it's binding falling apart. We connected up with them again when they played at the Nova Scotia exhibition in the early 1980's, and Dermot and Fergus came to spend the night at our place while Denis was taking time with his family. What a hoot we had - I don't remember any instruments being played, but I do remember a lot of hysterical laughter - the boys were in awe of my father's rather robust vegetable garden, and the fact that he grew flowers (nasturtiums) that were "edible" - I can still vividly see Dermot with a huge pile of these leaves sticking out of his mouth as he tasted them for himself! I can also see them laying in the long green grass of our lawn, playing with our dogs and just enjoying the country air and the break from their schedule. On that same visit, the next morning my father cooked the boys a big steak breakfast before they hit the road - my dad was a fan of somewhat "rare" beef, and when Dermot cut into the delightful morsel, he hastily handed it back to my dad and asked "Ivan, can you cook this?" Great memories are those. I had the opportunity to see Dermot and Fergus several years ago at O'Reilly's in St. John's when I was traveling there on business - Dermot was there in his little vest I remember him always sporting, and singing better than ever - I ran up and reintroduced myself as a grown up, and still got the bear hug I remember getting when I was a kid. I told him of my dad's health issues, and sadness flooded his eyes for his old friend.
So, today I shed a few tears - for the loss of Dermot, a talented musician, a sweet, funny and kindhearted man. Ironically, today is also my late father's birthday. Dad would have been 75 today - we lost him to Alzheimer's in June of 2005. My thoughts are of them both tonight, and of what they must be chatting about at their reunion - the world has suffered a loss with the passing of these two men, but I am sure that heaven is an entertaining place with them there.
God bless you Dermot - rest in peace
blessings to Anne, Deirdre, Suzanne, and Grainne

Kelly Marcoux (nee DeLong)
Stewiacke, Nova Scotia

Dermot O'Reilly was a singer/songwriter and musician extraordinaire. A tremendous loss to our music community, Newfoundland and Labrador and the world in general. His memory will live on in his music -

A Children's Winter
Candlelight and Wine
Labrador Song
Mist Upon a Morning

I never met Dermot but whenever I hear his music, or that of Ryan's Fancy, it gives me a feeling of joy. There is something so familiar about all the songs that I sing the words without ever having tried to learn them. The wonderful lilt to his voice and twinkle in his eye will be sadly missed. My condolences to his family, Fergus, Dennis, and his many close friends.

Trudy Veitch
Holyrood

Dermot's family and Newfoundland have lost a great person.
Having first seen Ryan's Fancy at the Strand in St. John's many years ago, fell in love with their great music and humour.
He will be sorely missed by his family and the people of Newfoundland.
My condolences to the O'Reilly family.
The great doors have been opened for you Rest In Peace

Chuck St. George
 

On behalf of Celtic Connection, I wish to send along our sincere condolences to the family and friends of a true gentleman, our friend Dermot. As a young lad, just 15 years old, I was lucky enough to share the stage in the various venues of our downtown core...Great Big Sea, Connemara, Manchester Run, Fine Crowd, The Punters, just to name a few...We all
had many things in common, but two in particular. First, a love of Irish/Celtic music. Second and more important, on top of our love of the music, we all shared an admiration of one special individual, Dermot O' Reilly. He is one of the few people I have had the pleasure of knowing that I cannot ever recall seeing anything other than a smile upon his
face. You will be sadly missed but never forgotten. We are blessed to be able to smile and remember such a wonderful entertainer, husband, father, and ambassador. Godspeed Dermot...

Scott Graham
 

Dermot,
We shared a lot of memories. Glad I had that great laugh and chat with you and Fergie on February 15th. Thanks for the music and friendship.

Codladh go sámh a chara,go dtí go buailimid le chéile arís!
ó Gary Kavanagh.
 

I would like to thank Dermot for sharing part of his wonderful life and personality with me, and all of Nfld. I was a follower of Dermot for the past decades and today I'm sifting through old VHS tapes as I've collected a lot with Dermot and his friends. I have him and Stan Rogers singing in a kitchen, and it's always been one of my favourites.

The last time my brother was home from Toronto we went to George St, two nights in a row to listen to Dermot & Fergus and he promised to sing "West Country Lady" for us, which he finished the night with and was the last song we heard him play.

My deepest sympathy to his family but I'm sure he will live forever in your hearts, as he will in mine.

Cheers,
Gerry Murphy,
Long Hr
 

I’ve decided to send my thoughts and prayers in this form as it looks like I won’t be able to make it home for Thursday, which upsets me greatly. I spent most of my teenage years weaned on the music of Ryan’s Fancy. It wasn’t until the age of nineteen that I picked up a guitar and began to learn the songs that would later become a part of my own repertoire week after week. I was in total awe of Dermot as my buddy Harry and I would catch his performance at the Blarney Stone on George in the early nineties. To record my first CD at Dermot’s studio in Torbay in 1997 was nothing short of a dream. I developed a wonderful friendship with both Dermot and Ann over the months and years that followed; my wife and I have visited them on a couple of occasions while home for Christmas; on any vacation home our favorite evening out was to catch Dermot at Erin’s; one of our fondest memories of our wedding was when Dermot performed at the church. So many wonderful memories - I can hardly type this letter for the tears in my eyes.

As a personal tribute to a beautiful man and unparalleled inspiration I started my performance last Saturday night with “Mist upon a morning” - I had to keep my eyes closed just to get through it.

Our thoughts and prayers are with Ann and the O’Reilly family.

God bless you Dermot, you will never be forgotten.

Dave and Suzanne Anthony,
Ottawa
 

Although we had never met Dermot, we would like to express our sincere sympathy to his family and friends.

Theresa and Len Bungay
Admiral's Beach
St. Mary's Bay

It was always a privilege to go watch Dermot play, whether it be at O' Reilly's, Erin's, Darry's or Bridie's he always gave 100%, and no doubt the drink certainly went down a lot quicker watching him perform. I never knew him personally and only quickly chatted with him a few times but that was enough for him to leave a great impression on me. All the best to his family and friends.

Shane Croft

It was with huge sadness that I heard the news of Dermot's passing. My parents were friends and fans of Ryan's Fancy and it was more than once that "The Boys" spent an evening in our kitchen in St. Johns, and once again when we moved to NS. Dermot was my first "love" when I was about 8, and my sister and I called him "Hippie". We loved his hair!
I remember a hilarious walk in our woods with Fergus, Dermot, Dennis and Allister MacGillivary- remember Dermot and Fergus both trying Nastursium leaves out of our garden, ("You eat those?!?) and being brave trying my father's fabulous, but very rare BBQ steaks.
I still have, and play, every Ryan's Fancy album made.
He will be missed by everyone whose life he touched through song and story, and I wish him peace, and to his lovely family- my most sincere condolences. There's more music in Heaven today, and a little less on Earth, due to his passing.

Rest in peace, Dermot.
Heather DeLong,
Nova Scotia

To the O'Reilly family

We are very sad to hear of Dermot's passing
I have always felt that Ryan's Fancy have brought our culture back to us and have inspired other singers to do so, his memory will live in all of us.
I have a copy of his visit to Best's Harbour in 1982 with Pat Byrne and the rest of the boys from Ryan's Fancy, when they played on the wharf of our dear friends Frank & Millicent Best, who have passed on as well.
I watched it again today, in his memory and marveled at the wonderful spirit of this man.

Please accept our condolences
Betty & Carl Hooper
St. John's, NL

One of my favorite past times when I was a younger 20 something was to enter the talent night at Erin's Pub. Quite often it was hosted by Dermot. During these times Erin's was like our living room and my friends and I would often have a pint or two with Dermot, Ralph, Jim Joyce, and whoever would talk to us. Dermot knew we loved the music and he would sit and talk and listen to us.

One of the more un-nerving things I have done was to perform, "Candlelight and Wine" while Dermot was in the audience. He came up, smiled, and said, "That was a real good job!" I will never forget  that!

I was transferred to Corner Brook in 95. Irish music was not heard of in the bars, but, was well listened to by the people on their Cd Players,etc. I was at a party and they had Ryan's Fancy playing, and I said, "I know the guy singing, it's Dermot O'Reilly." They didn't believe me. I thought it was funny, so I called 722-1916, Erin's Pub. Low and behold
Dermot happened to be there. I got him on the phone and he spoke to the crowd at the time in Corner Brook. That was awesome.

He was appreciated all over, his music is dateless, his smile heart warming, and his interest in every person he met unbelievable.

Dermot, I am ever so proud to have known you.

Rest now.

Rod Priddle

 

Dermot was  instrumental in producing our first Cd "Passage" which we partially recorded in his basement studio at "Piperstock Productions". during that time we got to know and love Dermot as a loving, patient man whose calm demeanor was an encouragement for us to forge ahead.

He was not critical but a positive force for us all. We were younger than but he could see a future with us. He attended many of our functions and was at our first CD launch with his wife Ann. Ann would provide a lunch for us, or a cup of tea into the late night hours at the studio. She was a loving wife and took care of all of Dermot's needs.
Dermot was also at our Christmas show at O'Reilly's, he and Fergus O'Byrne had come in at the end of the set as they were preparing to begin theirs.
They were both very complimentary of the group, how much we had grown musically and that the "little" ones were still there and well able to keep up, was blown away by Maria, Robyn and Brittany's voices and the individual solos, etc, group harmonies, it was a heart-felt love of theirs to share with us and a respect of what we have accomplished in 14 years.

Dermot will be missed by all of us, the St. John's community and the George St. Scene- he was a weekly regular at O'Reilly's

God Bless you Dermot- we'll miss you! Rest in Peace

The Celtic Fiddlers
 

I would like to send my heartfelt condolences to Dermot's Family and friends. Although I have only spoken to Dermot once or twice he always took the time to stop and say a heartfelt hello. Ten years ago, I heard Dermot play at Erin's pub for the first time and I have been a devoted listener ever since. I moved away from home four years ago, and each
time I return for visit, I have always made a point of heading down to O'Reilly's and listening to Dermot and Fergus play. I did so this past Christmas, and cherished every moment. When I heard of Dermot's passing, I was playing and singing some Newfoundland tunes with friends. We stopped for a moment and raised a glass to a man whose music will sound for generations to come. I can think of no better tribute than to continue the musical legacy that Dermot, Fergus and Dennis brought to our hearts and lives. Dermot, your music and actions spoke volumes of the what it means to be a true Newfoundlander. Although your guitar has fallen silent, it will play on in our hearts forever!

God bless Dermot and may your soul and all the souls of the faithfully departed rest in peace, Amen.

Mike Bidgood,
St. John's NL

My deepest sympathy to Dermot's family and friends on his passing. He was a wonderful person and will truly be missed.

Mildred Speer
Winnipeg, MB
 

Well Sunday marked only the third time in my life that I can recall shedding a tear... and of those three times, two were the result of Dermot's profound effect their music has on my life. I honestly could not hold them back in 2004 when himself, Fergus and Denis stood up on stage and chilled me to the bone with their beautiful, captivating harmonies after receiving their Lifetime Achievement Award.
When a friend told me of his passing Sunday, I refused to believe it and went immediately to the Internet where countless clips of the news confirmed it for me. I sat there flashing back to where I'd heard their music.... all Dad's albums, the festivals, the small gigs... it is a way of life for countless Newfoundlanders who were fortunate enough to grow up with their music in their homes.
Isn't it weird when you can feel so upset over losing someone you don't even really know? Every year I'm home I go see Fergus and Dermot play somewhere, and they never disappoint. Their music makes you long to be living back home.
I'll never forget one night @ O'Reilly's in 2001 when a huge crowd of my Mom's family, home for a visit, were taking in his show and he announced a song dedicated to me as I was returning back to Alberta in a couple of days. It was West Country Lady... the most beautiful song ever written, and it had long been my favourite tune prior to that night... even more so after that. Hearing him and Fergus perform it live was amazing. After the song I shook their hands and Thanked them both, and I could just tell that this is what they were all about..... genuinely making people happy with their music.

I know my children will know their music and they'll always know their roots.

Dermot, may God Bless you and welcome you Home.
To his wife Anne & his children.. God Bless you all, and thank you for sharing this wonderful man with the world.


Todd & TerriLynn Mercer
Fort McMurray, (AB)
(formerly of Whitbourne)
 

I am certainly saddened by the news of Dermot's' passing.
My Dad Don Parker first introduced me to the music of Ryan's Fancy around 1971 when the boys were playing the Black Night Lounge in Halifax. I was too young to see them perform there but quickly became a fan when their TV show started & rarely missed
a show. In the late 70's & early 80's I had the privilege of attending some tapings of the show.
When the band broke up I kind of lost track of what the three were doing but heard Fergus & Dermot were still performing around St. John's & Denis was doing the odd show in Halifax.
Then just a few years ago when the tall ships were in Halifax, I wondered down to the Dartmouth waterfront & lo & behold about 18 guys were up on stage singing Sea Shanty's. Well let me tell you what a performance. One of them was Dermot.
During a break I was in the beer tent ordering a beer when next to me a familiar voice said I'll have a Keith's please, I turned around & said I've got to shake the hand of the man who sang "Chastity Belt". Dermot stuck out his hand & said "Now there's one I haven't sung in a while!"
On Sunday night I was at the ECMAs & had a chance to speak to Ron Hynes who told me the CBC were giving him about 16 seconds to say a few words about Dermot & Ron was having a hard time firstly trying to overcome his grief at the lost of his friend, & secondly how do you properly honour someone like Dermot in just 16 seconds. Well the bottom line is you can't. But Ron went on & gave a heart felt statement which touched us all. So next year it is up to all of those who read this to call the producers at the CBC to make sure that a proper tribute is arranged at the next ECMA's in Fredericton. Once again we have truly lost a great soul & a fine musician. Right now, at this very moment he's probably playing in the greatest band ever, flanked by John Allan Cameron & Dermot's own idol from his early years Buddy Holly.
God bless you Dermot from one Nova Scotian who was touched by your music and your soul.

Slante!
Dwight Parker

To Ann, Deirdre, Grainne, Suzanne and Families.

Just to let you all know we are thinking of you. You are all in our prayers and our thoughts.

Claire, Paul, Clare and Paul Flanagan.
Dublin, Ireland.
 

He was a legend before his time, an even bigger legend during his time. Now, with the sad and painful passing of our friend, he will remain a legend.

Celtic music first caught my interest around 1992 and has never let go since. When I first became interested, it was the magic of the instruments that set the hook – the overpowering gut-feeling the fiddle brings, the dazzlement of the fingers running across the frets of a mandolin, and the chest-pounding vibrations from a deeply struck bodrhan.

As the love for the music grew, and as the appreciation of the lore attached to it matured, came an unexplainable pure love for everything that is Celtic/Traditional Folk Music. It became much deeper than a song with a cool fiddle riff in the middle or a rapid increase in tempo as it got crazier near the end. The music now had the ability to deliver emotions – pride, sorrow, and the overwhelming feeling of pure happiness. No performer have I ever seen nearly as capable of delivering this complete package – performance after performance – as Dermot O’Reilly.

No matter how much you felt in love with the music; no matter how in love you ever were or ever became with it while listening and watching him perform, you could always see inside his heart and know that he felt the same, even more-so. When he opened his guitar case up, he willingly opened up his heart night after night.

I have always been able to talk with and, from time to time, play a tune or two with some of my favourite Celtic performers. Those nights when you have a few extra pints of courage in your system, a conversation with a few of them seems like the perfect idea. But with Dermot, the feeling of awe and wonder would always overpower me to the point I would just sit and watch him as he left for the evening.

It remained that way until one night, I knew I just had to let him know how much of an impact he has had and is continuing to have on my life and my music. I approached him after his set was complete at O’Reilly’s Pub, and as I chatted with him, the topic of the 2005 benefit concert surfaced. I told him how I had no other choice but to drive in from Gander for that night, no matter what the circumstances. Instead of shaking my hand or patting me on the shoulder in thanks, he dropped his guitar case and gave me a heart-felt hug and said “Thank you – that means a lot to me. That concert helped me through a very difficult time in my life.”

I stood there in wonder at the fact that once again, he opened his heart up to show his feelings – something he has been doing for all of us ever since he arrived on our shores. It takes an incredibly huge heart to begin with to touch as many hearts as he has.

Now I must say to Dermot – Thank YOU – for your music, your influence, and for your love of life and everything about it. We will miss you while we’re here, and we will see you when we’re gone. We’ll give you a toast over our next pint. You will always be remembered.

Jim Bragg,
Gander

A legend, a Newfoundland icon, left us this weekend. Dermot's legacy will live on forever in our great province and throughout Canada and Ireland. The last time I watched Dermot and Fergus perform I was lucky enough to be sitting close enough to them during one of their breaks to share a pint with them. This is a memory that will last forever. To
Dermot's family, his legendary partner Fergus, and the large circle of musicians that knew Dermot as a friend, I offer my condolences.

"And she hopes that tomorrow will kindly attend to the bountiful
sea, and the land and her people will always be free"

Steve Smith
Long Cove, NL

I became an instant fan/friend of Dermot when I first met him performing @ The Light/Harbor& Tickle many years ago. His music always kept you connected to your roots & his talent, humour & friendly acknowledgement of your presence at his performances always left you with a warm feeling. I feel honored to be at his final show on Friday night. His passing will leave a void in our lives but we will cherish the memories. To Ann, the girls & their families also Fergus O' Byrne & Ralph O'Brien my sincere sympathy.

Sincerely,
Anna Power
 

 I had a great childhood growing up in Dublin with you Dermot. Memories flood back of us doing the "boxing the Fox", a little bit of mitching from school and having great fun in the valley. Another time we bought a car together - a very old car - £20 - a very old ford prefect - lots of money in those days. We had a great time fishing, cycling, cricket and making sure we did not upset our big brother Tom or he would break the stumps and that would be the game over. Remember one night we saw the heather burning up the Dublin mountains, so we decided to go and investigate the fire. Unfortunately, we were roped into putting out the fire. Its amazing what two pints of Arthur will do for you. We lost our light, anyway and when the fire was put out we had to make our way down the mountain in the dark. I heard manys a great quote from you but this one was the best of all - At 2 o'clock in the morning struggling down the mountain wet and cold Dermot , but this time you quoted JFK, President of America "its not what your country can do for you but what you can do for your country" and I would not repeat my answer to you. !!
Thinking of you at this very sad time, Fergus.

We were always great buddies, and you will be missed so much. I am so proud to have you as a Brother.
Eddie, Galway. Ireland.

To Ann and all the girls, you are in our thoughts
Tom and Rose, Gay and Patsy, Eddie and Mare and all the O'Reilly Family in Ireland.

Dermot's music and the music of Ryan's Fancy hand a profound impact on
my life. There were countless times that their music made me realize
how fortunate I am and how the simple things in life are often the most
important. Dermot's music celebrated the life history of so many and I
am so honored to have taken the time to have listened.

I would like to take this opportunity to send my deepest condolences to
his wife and family, Fergus, Denis, and all of his dear friends.

You will be missed dearly in so many ways,
Kirk Wiseman

Watching the East Coast Music Awards and hearing Ron dedicate his song to Dermot made my heart sink. I worked at O'Reilly's Pub for a short time and had the pleasure of hearing Dermot and Fergus play, as well as share a few pints after hours. What a great man - full of stories, smiles and genuine heart. Candlelight and Wine is a favorite song for my wife and I, and since she is from Saskatchewan, she appreciated and knew how lucky she was hearing it live a couple of times during visits to the province.

The music landscape will be missing a large piece of the foundation. The Province will be missing a great person who brought smiles to everyone he met - whether he knew them or not.

Cheers to you Dermot - I will have a pint for you

Leigh Fitzpatrick
Regina, SK

I, like so many other fortunate people, have the honor and privilege to say Dermot was my friend. And what an honor indeed. What made Dermot so special was simply that he always had time for his admirers, always had that sparkle in his eye, and was as true and genuine a person that you will ever come across. A big nod of his head as he recognized you entering a pub, that big "why hello" as he approached you and that magical voice that touched so, so many people.

My memories of Dermot are many. Sharing a drink in between sets at Erins, listening to his words of wisdom and enjoying his very unique wit and humour. Watching and listening to him and Fergus perform virtually non-stop for hours in my fathers rec. room in 2002 for a party honoring my fathers 60th birthday. Working in conjunction with him and Fergus as I arranged some gigs here on the Burin Peninsula in Lawn, Lords Cove, Point May and Allan's Island. Four shows in two days and two wonderful nights, again in my fathers rec. room, lasting long after the curtains closed on the shows. And how can I forget Dermot finishing up for the night at the Blarney Stone then coming upstairs to Henrys Haven for "one more pint" before going home.

Over the last little while my girlfriend Stephanie has also gotten to know Dermot and she, like so many others, just found him so genuine, so honest, so real. Dermot, you leave with your family and countless friends a lifetime of good memories and a legacy that will not be matched. My heartfelt condolences to Ann, your three daughters and to Fergus and his family as well.

For me personally, going downtown will never again be the same but your laughter, your smile, the gleam in your eyes and your voice will live on forever.

Jimmy Rogers & Stephanie Edwards

Lawn, NL

Me and my husband always remember when Dermot used to perform at Drake's pub in Lab. City. He would hang with us in between sets and grace us with his outstanding personality and memorable presence and humor. I also remember him being shocked of all the hot wings me and my husband used to eat!!. We could sit and listen to him for hours, and did!! He is a musical legend, and will be remembered and sadly missed.

Marlene and Mike Thompson.
(Niece of Boyd Warren Chubbs (fellow musician/artist/good friend) of Mr. Dermot O'Reilly)

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Obituary

Media coverage of the passing of Dermot O'Reilly:

Mourners remember Dermot
(Audio)

CBC Funeral Coverage

CBC

CBC Radio

Canadian Press

Ryan's Fancy retrospective
 from 2004 ECMA's

From Youtube:
Dermot and Fergus at O'Reilly's

Thanks to Shawn Fulford for this: