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I was deeply saddened to hear of Dermot's passing. He was a wonderful soul - kind and genuine. I met Dermot through music in the early 1970s and had the good fortune to play some live shows and work on a few recording projects with him over the years. His songs are rich and classic, his bright spirit everlasting.

Patti and I send our heartfelt condolences to Ann, Deirdre, Suzanne and Grainne and families, and to Fergus and Denis and all who loved and knew and were touched by Dermot.

Gordon Quinton
St. John's

I had the absolute pleasure of getting to know the Ryan's Fancy crowd while filming the WOW special Pirate's Gold in the late 70's, and unbelievably that was well over 20 years ago. We shipped out to Ferryland every day with a CBC crew to film this little pirate story
on a small rocky island in the bay. Being only 12 or 13 years old, it was quite an adventure for me to say the least, but fairly intimidating and scary. To say that Dermot took me under his wing is an understatement. He seemed to take it as his personal responsibility to watch out for me when my parents weren't around, and many an hour I spent sitting on a rock listening to him with his guitar singing one of the endless supply of folk songs he seemed to
have stored up in his head. Just a few years ago, Fergus and Dermot came out to perform at Winterton Day Folk Festival where I spend my summers to be close to my parents. They put on a fantastic show for the few of us who braved the cold, and it was so obvious that he hadn't changed a bit in all those years between, he was that night, just as he was when I knew him as a child, a perfect gentleman.

Newfoundland music will forever be diminished by his absence, but the heavens has an angel who rants and roars!

Rest in peace Dermot
James (Jamie) Pinhorn

To Anne and Family,

We cannot begin to imagine the pain of losing someone so dear. I hope you take comfort in knowing that you shared the life of a wonderful man who touched the hearts and minds of so many. His music transcended generations, it was something that anyone could enjoy. He will be truly missed.

"One more time, for the dancers" - Dermot

Rest in Peace Dermot,
Mark Morrissey
Corner Brook, NL

I want to extend my condolences to all who are feeling a profound sense of loss following the passing of this remarkable man. A common thread running through the remarks on this site is that Dermot was so much more than his music, which is of course a tremendous legacy for Newfoundland, Canada and indeed the world. He also was loved for the quality of his soul, which exuded warmth, kindness and generosity. The combination is rare, and those who knew him were lucky indeed.

S. Alexander, Alberta

My heartfelt and deepest Sympathy to the O'Reilly families and special friends of Dermot.

One of Newfoundland's Best Music Icons has journeyed on and left a large void in our music world.

I was never fortunate enough to have met Dermot in person, however I did have the pleasure of chatting with him through a couple of telephone calls. He came across to me as a very genuine, heartwarming and sincere individual who would do anything to help another. He had such a friendly manner that I felt I had known him personally all my life.

For many years I enjoyed and loved listening to him sing whether it be on tapes/videos, in concerts, pubs (along with his friends "Ryan's Fancy"). One of my favourite songs which he wrote is "Children's Winter" which he so willingly and without hesitation permitted me to record not too long ago. From now on, every time I get the opportunity to sing it, I will remember Dermot and silently say a little prayer for him.

His music and voice will be remembered for many years to come for instilling into the hearts of all Newfoundlanders and beyond, the importance of keeping our tradition. . . our heritage. . . Alive.

To his wife Ann and his children. . . There are no words to ease the pain. . . but. . .May you find comfort in knowing there are so many others out there who share in your sorrow at this most difficult time. I'm sure his many friends (especially Fergus and Dennis) will forever keep his spirit and memory alive by the singing of their wonderful songs at many functions.

It is said "A Smile is a curve that sets things straight" Dermot O'Reilly had that contagious smile and he did just that with everyone who crossed his path!

Dermot . . . May you always sing with the Choirs of the Heavenly Angels!!!
Rest in Peace our Nfld Friend.

Judy Brazil
Trepassey, NL

My own dad, who passed away almost 14 years ago, introduced me to Ryan's Fancy music when I was a very little girl growing up in Newfoundland, and I absolutely loved it. Every time I listen to Ryan's Fancy, the music reminds me of my dad, whom I miss very much. Their songs mean a great deal to me.
We have lost an extremely talented musician. Dermot will be sadly missed by many. I wish to take this time to express my condolences to his family, friends and band mates.

Sincerely,
Stephanie S. Lambert
Oshawa, Ontario

Hi Ann / Deidre / Susanne & Garinne
Sorry to hear about the passing of your husband and father. I'm not
sure if you remember me but I have many fond memories of sitting in the front seat
of your car riding home from school while Dermot sat in the back and insisted that I stay in the front. Ann, also I babysat your girls on many occasions when you lived on Cumberland Cres. while you and Dermot were out to one of his concerts. If you still don't remember me,I am Dee's brother Calvin Dobbin. Once again please accept my sincerest sympathy and I will remember you always.

Calvin Dobbin

I remember the first time I ever seen Dermot O'Reilly. I was about ten years old and I seen him in the old Sobey's supermarket in the Avalon Mall. He looked like he was 10 feet tall and, to me, he looked to be the spitting image of Robin Hood. I was in awe of the man whose music I knew even as a child. I grew up to be a pharmacist and worked in a pharmacy where I would see both Dermot and his wife Ann from time to time. Every time I would see Dermot I would still be in awe of him and feel the way I did the first time I ever saw him. He was truly a wonderful and magical man, and he will be sadly missed. His music and legacy will be remembered by many in this province, and by anyone who knew him.

Rob Vail
St.John's

Dear Ann and Family,
Please accept our deepest and most sincere sympathy. Our heart ache for your loss, we so wish there was something we could do to help you through this difficult time. Please know that we are always here no matter how much time may pass.

As others have said over and over, Dermot was such a special man with not only a gift of music but a gift of caring, love, and acceptance - We have all been so blessed to have known him. I really cannot remember a time in my life that I did not know Dermot. From my childhood watching Ryan's Fancy playing together with my dad and the Wareham Brothers; up to the night Lou and I got engaged and you directed us to where Dermot and Fergus were playing, thank you again for that.

Our thoughts and all our prayers are with you and all your family. Please take comfort in knowing there are so many who treasure you both.

Take care and God Bless,
Lori, Lou & Kristyan Mulrooney

We lost one of the great ones with Dermot's passing, but heaven just became a better place.
My thoughts and prays are with the family through this difficult time.

Norm Arsenault
Shediac, N.B

I first met Dermot O'Reilly when I served on the St. John's Canada Day Committee back in the early 1990's and Dermot performed at the Canada Day concerts at Prince Edward Plaza on George Street that were an important part of the event back then. It was easy to see how his incredible talent and outstanding personality appealed to so many people of different ages and backgrounds, and he contributed immensely to the concert's success. A couple of years later in 2003 I was a part of the executive committee organizing a huge RC School Boards education conference at Holy Heart of Mary Regional High School in St. John's, and I had the privilege of working with Mr. O'Reilly again, as he taped and produced via his company Piper Stock Productions the entire video of the conference including background music, landscape images, etc. It struck me during this experience that Dermot O'Reilly was one of those rare individuals, blessed with immeasurable talent, who bring something extraordinary and special to whatever they are involved in. I just felt incredibly privileged as we all did to be working with such a gifted and unique individual, and the results of his work truly made our events shine. My sincere regrets on his passing on behalf of all of us from those events who were so fortunate to have worked with him, and I thank him for sharing his time with us and making our lives better.

PD Locke

I only met Dermot once. He came to the school where I was teaching to entertain, & I can't remember the occasion - probably St. Patrick's Day. In any case, I will always remember his warm smile and his patience with the students, and how much he seemed to enjoy being there and making us all happy to be in his presence, enjoying his music. Many times I have had the opportunity to sing "A Children's Winter" as part of some entertaining that I have done, and although I always knew who wrote the song and where it came from, I will never sing it again without remembering Dermot and saying a little prayer.

Clayton Handrigan,
CBS, NL

It is a great loss...and i express my deepest sympathy. My prayers are with you and your family in this time of sorrow.

Mary Curran & Family

My husband Michael and I, were very saddened to hear of Dermot's passing, and our thoughts and prayers are with Anne and his girls and their families.
Reading the many tributes paid to Dermot, has made us feel so very proud, that a fellow Irishman made such a vast musical impression and also touched so many hearts and souls with his kindness, humanity and humour.
My late mother RIP, always said to us, "when God calls you, all that will matter is what kindness you have shown when no one was looking and what good turns you secretly did for those less fortunate and what hearts you touched in the course of your life", in that case Dermot, God's great arms are wrapped tightly around you now and forever.

Anna McGoldrick

We have become great fans of Newfoundland music. While attending the Folk Festival last summer we ventured onto George St where we heard Dermot and Fergus for the first time. A friend introduced us to Dermot. We became immediate fans and returned home with a lovely CD. We are saddened by the news of his passing. Our heartfelt condolences to Dermot's family and friends.
God Bless

The Haufe Family
Chicago, Illinois

I too feel the need to express the personal loss I feel of the passing of Dermot O'Reilly. Growing up in Newfoundland has been one of the greatest gifts I have ever received. The music of Sullivan's Gypsies, Ryan's Fancy and of Dermot alone has been a big part of my childhood and the culture that I am so proud to be involved in. I spent 5 months outside of Newfoundland in 2003. I spent the majority of that time collecting Ryan's Fancy records at flea markets and playing them. It was all that kept me sane! I met Dermot at O'Reilly's one night and expressed to him how he had such an impact on my life. We had a wonderful chat. I feel a huge personal loss even though we never met beyond those conversations at O'Reilly's. The island will mourn with the families, there is no doubt. Again, my humblest and sincerest regrets.

Karen Foote

I would like to express my deepest sympathy to the family of Dermot O'Reilly. I still enjoy listening to the music of Ryan's Fancy. I have two of their CD's

Wayne Collins

It is said that the measure of a man is not determined by the wealth, power or fame that he achieves while on earth but in the loving memories that he leaves behind with those that he touched along the way. Dermot was such a man; he and I crossed musical paths many times when I lived in St. John's. The first meeting was at the old Memorial Stadium where he was performing with Ryan's Fancy and I was in the back up band for Vera Lynn. During their performance, I walked to the back of the auditorium to hear the "big sound". The boys were at their peak and that night it was not just their on - stage performance that impressed me BUT the way that the audience hung on every word they sang. It was as if God had sent down his three boys for a special one of a kind performance. They communicated that night with the thousands of legionnaires who came out to see them and it was easy to determine that they well held in high esteem.

Sometime later, Dermot, some other CBC session musicians and I were together on a Saturday morning at the CBC TV studio on Prince Phillip Drive practicing some tunes for a show that was being produced at the time. I remember, Dermot had performed the night before in Gander and he was hoarse from singing all night with his two pals.. However, he didn't complain, he just worked through it like the pro he was and laid down the vocal tracks. I remarked later to some of my friends that for a star one of the qualities that he had was an overabundance of was humility. Not exactly something that you commonly find in the arts community.

One other time that I will share with all of you was at a St. Patrick's party that we played for in St. John's. That night we had quite a lineup of musicians including Dermot and after we played one tune in the opening set which didn't generate much applause, Dermot quickly turned to me and said " Hey Nels, it looks like we have an oil painting out there." Then we kicked off another tune and played throughout the night. His keen sense of wit was in fine form that night.

To you Fergus, we have never met, but I saw your heartfelt tribute to your pal on NTV and as you said we all at some time or other lose a buddy and it is a painful experience. But look at the adventure you had with Dermot; those memories will provide the fuel that you are going to require to carry on the musical tradition of communicating with your audience.

To Dermot's family, I realize that this is a tough time for you and our thoughts and prayers are with you all. God broke the mould when he made Dermot becauue he realized that he would do it right the first time around.

Regards,
Nelson Giles

Well Dermot, it is 2 o'clock in St. John's. It is a beautiful Thursday here in Halifax. I suppose everyone who can, is seated in the church, with many more standing in the aisles. I am truly sorry that I could not join your family and friends today, however I wanted to drop you a note to say that you are very much in my thoughts and prayers today. It is a sad day for many people, myself included, but some how I take a bit of comfort in thinking that you are laying at the front of the church, very proud, content, and with a large smile on your face. That smile will and has touched many a life I am sure. I know we have only met on a handful of occasions, but your passing has left me with a feeling of profound sadness and loss. This I know can only speak volumes of the kind of man you were, and of the life you lived. I want to thank you for taking the time to come to Halifax with your family in October, and sharing in one of the most important days of my life. Colleen and my self cannot express how special that time was, and we will be sure to recount that day with Fionnuala as soon as she is old enough to understand.

I will never forget you. You have made my life richer, and I thank you for that.

Jeff Beanlands

'Here's to you my ramblin' boy'

Love Don Patsy, Michelle, Valda, Carl & Andrea,
The Quinlan's

To quote John Quincy Adams, "If your actions inspire others to dream more, learn more, do more and become more, you are a leader". We have lost a leader with the passing too soon of Dermot O'Reilly. This gentleman, who embraced this island and people as his own, and who did so much for our musical heritage, will surely be missed. That he has touched so many lives and hearts in his lifetime through music and laughter is something his family and friends can be proud of. His legacy will live on. Our deepest sympathies to all. God bless.

Reg and Ellen Hodder
CBS

If you walked into a room and Dermot was in that room. You knew you had the right place. Anywhere Dermot was performing or just having a pint & chat, was certainly the place to be. Dermot had such a graceful presence and he could easily brighten up any room. Dermot's passing is going to be difficult for a large number of people. He had the personality, spirit & warmness that touched so many people's hearts., including mine. It's tough to imagine him not being around anymore, but I will tell you that the people of Newfoundland will make it certain that his legacy lives forever. It will be a very natural thing to do. Dermot will always be in our hearts & minds for many generations of people to come. His stories, music, words and our memories of him will certainly be around for a very long time, if not forever. I have been thinking a lot this week of all the wonderful memories I have of Dermot and there are so, so many. He certainly was a very special man. My deepest sympathy goes to Ann, his family, and to his closest friends including Fergus, Ralph O'Brien, Denis Ryan, and to all of his closest fans.

God Bless,
Shane Howard
Suncheon, South Korea

My condolences to Ann and the family and to Fergus and Denis and all the fans who never stopped loving Ryan's Fancy. They became the measuring stick for traditional music. There were only a few who measured up.

My family became a better family because of Ryan's Fancy; the boys brought us all together as we drove from city to town, university to pub to the Atlantic Folk Festival, to hear them sing and watch them perform. You couldn't have a table of 8 to 12 people at most of your shows in New Brunswick and some in Nova Scotia, and not finally get to know "The Boys". Their curiosity got the better of them and one night during the break, they finally came down and asked who we were. You see, we used to go to listen. Yes, we'd all have a drink, but that was incidental. We wanted to hear the music. We sang along with them, but didn't try to ousting them. We often asked them to clarify the words to their songs, as we were writing them down, putting them into our songbooks and singing them together at our family gatherings.

The Boys were pleased. We started to get to know them. One night I asked Denis if I was to organize a Folk Festival on the Kingston Peninsula if they would play. "Hell yes" he said. He gave me Brooks Diamond's name and we eventually worked everything out and had two festivals, the last one the year they retired. The first one was magic. It was around June 10th (my birthday), but the weather was like July. Here we were in an open field, a flatbed truck as a stage. Some Johnny-on-the-spots tucked into the woods and families spreading blankets and setting up lawn chairs, enjoying their picnic and listening to the finest traditional music in all of Canada. In a field at Gorham's Bluff, on the Kingston Peninsula. Allister McGillivary and Skip Keehan were with them back then.

After that event I said "I can die happy now". Fortunately I didn't and went on to enjoy the last public concert at the Lobster Shanty in PEI and the party at Jim and Shirley MacNeill's house afterwards.

About a year later my sister-in-law Janet Gorham and I traveled to NFLD to attend a newspaper conference. Dermot and Ann invited us and Jim & Shirley McNeill to a Saturday night Spaghetti dinner at their house. Later we went on to Jack Kellum's house and laughed ourselves silly watching out takes from their TV shows at Gorham's Bluff and King's Landing. Jack's wife fed us seafood chowder about 4 a.m. and then Ann suggested we should all jump in their old IH Scout and see the sunrise over the Battery (where our hotel was located). Poor Ann it was probably the only way she knew how to get us mainlanders to go to bed! After the sun came up, we all hugged, said our goodbyes and Jim walked Janet and me back to our hotel.

I was in Halifax during Tall Ships and saw all my old friends, Hal 'n Tow and Dermot and Fergus singing at an event called Drum. I didn't have a chance to say 'hi' to Dermot and the last I saw him was walking alone down Barrington Street, carrying his guitar. The same guitar he cracked at my house while singing Peggy Sue. But that's another story.

The Gorham, Leggett, MacKenzie, Colpitts and Mavis families are better for having known you, but saddened that "we will no see you again laddy".

Gone but not forgotten,
Cheers,

Willa (Colpitts-Gorham) Mavis
Saint John, NB

It has been many years since I lived in Newfoundland...when I was told the news it brought back with a rush all the memories of Newfoundland. And of the music and the people who played it. The Mall. The Strand. The world will be a sadder place without you, Dermot.
My thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends.

Judith Rae (O'Donovan)
Ladysmith, BC

I remember watching Ryan's Fancy at the Greywood at Dalhousie many, many years ago and seeing Dermot break two strings on his guitar in the middle of just one song. I couldn't believe anything like that could ever happen until I did the exact same thing during one of my performances. I know now that Dermot was playing with passion. Passion exuded from him, in all that he did, and in all the many times he lent a helping hand to those who needed
it. I feel honoured to have had, years later, the wonderful opportunity to
share the stage with Dermot at the 2000 Parade of Sail in Halifax.

He will be missed by myself and all he touched with his heart and music.

Safe home Dermot.
Dan McKinnon
Halifax, NS

Our condolences to the family and friends of Dermot; he was an inspiration to all Newfoundlanders. While not from here, his life's work promoted our heritage and values. He was a true native son. His legacy will live on in his music, family, and friends. God speed, Dermot.

Derek and Arlene Scott, Torbay

My sincere condolences to Dermot's family and to Fergus. I spent my university years listening to the boys at the Strand and have passed many days since then playing their music in my own band. Beggars Bush. And sharing a laugh and a pint with Derm and Ferg both in Gander and St. John's. Dermot's passing was a great shock and a great loss to all who knew him. He will be sadly missed on the music scene and in the circle of people who knew him. I hope we can all sing a few of his songs to remember him, especially on St. Paddy's Day. God bless you Dermot and thanks for the memories.
Slainte
Terry Noonan
Gander

I am very deeply saddened by Dermot’s passing. Even though we weren't personal friends, i felt a close relationship with Dermot and his talent of music. I've asked friends of mine in county mayo, Ireland, at "mid west Irish radio" to play "Rose of Mooncoin" in Dermot’s memory. As i write, they are playin' the tune. God bless. God save Ireland!!!! God save Dermot O'Reilly!!!! God save Dermot’s family!!!!

Niall Butt,
Carbonear

To The O'Reilly family & Fergus
My thoughts are with you. I had the pleasure of working with Dermot on several occasions.
As he spoke to his audiences you could hear a pin drop. His distinctive voice and humour captivated the room. His name will live on in his music.
Dermot, thanks for the years you dedicated to the music industry.
Jane Morgan

Sorry to hear the passing of Dermot O'Reilly. He will be missed by all here in Newfoundland and around the provinces.

Clementine and John Atkins
Mount Pearl.

February 22, 2007
Can't sing this morning, but that doesn't stop my heart. Listening to my heart is a 'must do' for me and a delight. The heart seems to have a lot to say about my dear friend and brother, Dermot.
Yesterday there was "This Is The Way" inspired in a quiet moment at Caul's.
This morning the following came out. It would be rather slow waltz-like with an airy feel...

Dermot

What is a world without you like?
Must it be sadder than it was?
When you were here you gave to it
such a sweetness with your love.
When you were here something special
seemed to go wherever you did.
A lightness by your gentle touch.
For that was the life that you lived.

What is a world without you like?
How can we keep it the same?
If we all chose to love a little more,
and we did so in your name,
perhaps then we can keep you alive,
and no more sadder would it be.
For the world is so much richer now.
Must we lose it now that you leave?

What is a world without you like?
You'd encourage us and say, "Carry on."
"Just do your best." you'd say with a smile,
and I'll do what I can in a song.
To tell the world you have lit a fine torch,
and each of us can carry a share,
and make part of you a part of ourselves.
This way you'll always be here.

What is a world without you like?
Perhaps we are given a choice,
by lives that we live, we can keep you around,
and together we sing and rejoice.

Dermot; always will love you dear friend & brother
Terry Rielly

A Photo of Dermot and I which I treasure now more than ever. we both loved out tweed jackets. here we are posing for the new Sear's catalogue.

Just want to send my condolences and those of my wife and her family.
We fondly remember all the great times in the old LBR (Halifax) and in PEI also .
My best remembrance of Ryan’s Fancy was the last performance in the LBR when all the
Halifax groups of the day were on stage with the guys and Dermot struck up a few Buddy Hollys

Alan and Anne (McGuire) Donohoe

To the O'Reilly family,

We are very sad to hear of Dermot's passing. We never had the opportunity to meet him but dearly loved his music. Our thoughts & prayers are with you at this time of sorrow.

Dennis & Carmel Taylor
Marathon , On

I first remember Ryan's Fancy from the sweet age of six, looking at an 8 Track that my father had, entitled "Newfoundland Drinking Songs." I was captivated by the picture on the case. In the picture at the end of the bar was Dermot O'Reilly with his long shaggy hair and beard. He looked to me to be the epitome of a fun loving musician he looked cool calm and collected. Listening to recordings of Ryan's Fancy it became apparent to me that Dermot was exactly who I thought he was - a true entertainer and lover of life. I have listened to Ryan's Fancy all my life and only wish that I could have been around during their touring days.

It was just back in January when Fergus and Dermot were playing at O'Reilly's that I first met Dermot. I walked into the bar and there setting up on stage was Dermot. I recognized him instantly as the man I had always admired, with that I enthusiastically walked up to him and told him how much it meant to me to be able to be there that night to watch them play. It was a dream come true, and I told him it meant the world to me to be there that night. After the first set Dermot - God bless him - came over to talk to me. To me talking to him was like talking to the biggest star in the world. My girlfriend Stephanie who sat next to me couldn't believe the affect Dermot had on me, I was blushing and giddy. Throughout the night Dermot come to talk with my girlfriend and I, and it was a dream come true. I was so very blessed that night to have had the privilege to converse with one of the greatest musicians and gentleman ever to sing, he had a profound impact on me. It was rewarding too to find he was kind and personable, just as I had imagined.

To the family please take solace in knowing that when I heard of his passing I cried for a great man is no longer with us. I am now far far away from home and wish I could do more - for this man had meant a great deal to me even though I only meant him once. Today I put on my head phones to listened to "goodbye mick" as Dermot introduces the band and says "... and my name is Dermot Anthony Joseph O apostrophe Reilly" and I smiled and laughed as his voice and character will live forever in the music he loved to make.

God rest your soul Dermot, and I hope we'll meet again up yonder,

Russell Samways and Stephanie Spencer

Ah sure he was a great man was our Dermot, truly one of a kind, no other can walk in his footsteps. Once in a while God will take a hand full of magic and sprinkle it on someone to see what happens and sure Dermot just shined with the talent and grace that only a chosen few get to experience. What a warm man, what a legend, what a friend and how he could reach out and touch his audience, all there just to experience a wee bit of his magic.
Of all the people you meet in a life time, how many we forget, yet I only meet Dermot 3 times and 3 times we had a wee chat about life, music, friends and Ireland and he welcomed me each time like a long lost friend, that was Dermot, that was the way he was.
1982, Red Deer, Alberta, Ryan's Fancy, we talked for 10 minutes, he never forgot that, 2004, Erin's, St John's he quietly sat and watched our band play a set or two that Saturday night, aren't you the wee man from Northern Ireland he say's, say's I, I am, say's he, I thought so. What a memory he was blessed with. Sept 2005, again at Erin's, this time with Jimmy Feehan from Siochana, he say's, your back again, you love Newfoundland or what ? I say's awk sure Dermot, would ya just get up and sing your wee tune "West Country Lady" I will he say's,,, just for yourself,,, God love ya, God protect ya, Dermot.

St Jame's Gate
Red Deer
Alberta

It's hard to know where to begin , how to say , how deeply sorry we are , for the passing of a dear friend , family or partner can be at times . The music that was brought forth by Dermot and his colleges , put a smile on your face and a warm sensation up and down your spine . To be a great musician , you have to really truly love and believe in the music you do and to also love to perform that great talent . This is what Dermot truly was !!!
We recently released our first CD in January of this year , consisting of NFLD traditional songs and an original of our own .This alone gives one's self that warm feeling , to know that someone can appreciate what you do .
Dermot , you will truly be missed , but never forgotten . May God bless you and keep you!
Fergus , keep Dermot's spirit alive here with you . Keep strong and do him proud , a we know you will !

The Hookey's
Port Rexton ,Trinity bay , NFLD

We are so sad to hear about Dermot. We’ve enjoyed hearing him perform through the years. Every time we’re back in Newfoundland we look for him.

He was such a great singer and such a happy man. We will miss him dearly. We send our condolences to his wife Ann, family, Fergus and friends.

Much love from Wendy, Sue, and the members of Willowgreen, from Minnesota.

I am both privileged and honored to have known Dermot O'Reilly. I have always been in awe of the man as a musician, singer and songwriter. Though a wonderful man has left this world, he will live on forever in his music. It is with great sadness that I say goodbye to a man who has been such an influence on me and my music.

Dermot, God Bless You - The pleasure of knowing you has been all mine.

Heather Cadigan

Our deepest condolences to Ann and family. Dermot was not only a most talented musician but one of the finest people we've ever known.

He has touched the hearts and souls of so many - We are blessed to have known him.

You will be missed our friend….

"Here's to you, my rambling boy"

Neil Hyde and Angela Thorne

We were so saddened to hear of Dermot’s sudden passing. My fondest memories of Dermot were from the early seventies at the Strand Lounge. Although I did not meet my husband there, we spent many of our early dates there. Our record was seven nights in a row, sitting as close to the front as possible. It was Ryan’s Fancy who sang a song for me on my 21st Birthday (legal age back then). We also introduced our friends to their music at the Black Knight Lounge in Halifax while we were visiting there.

Now more than thirty years later my daughter, while working at Bridie Molloy’s, got to know him personally and loved his music as much as we do. So Dermot gained the love and respect of two generations and hopefully maybe a third someday, as we have carefully preserved our old LP’s on CD’s. Our deepest sympathy to his wife & family and also to Fergus.

“The song may have ended but the music will echo on.”

Jo-Ann & Brian Kelly
St. John’s

I was lucky: the first show I ever saw was Ryan's Fancy at the Rebecca Cohn in Halifax. I was 10 years old and I had never seen anyone like Dermot! He was pure magic, and has always remained my favourite.

A few years ago I started to visit my friend Jean, in St. John's. I was delighted when I learned we were going to see Dermot and Fergus at O'Reilly's.

Later that evening I summoned up my courage and went to talk to Dermot. He was very kind and to my delight he was still magic! He also sang both songs I requested and didn't seem to care that I was babbling like an idiot.

I have returned to St. John's a few times since, and always managed to get to hear Dermot. I have also made some very special friends in St. John's. You don't have to spend much time around folks there to discover what a deep love and respect they all have for Dermot. And the fraction of time that I was in his vicinity was all I needed to see why he inspired such love. What a truly beautiful man!

My sincere condolences to Ann, all Dermot's family and friends.

Veronica Gaetz
Halifax, NS

Fergus, Denis, & family of Dermot;

Sincere condolences on the passing of Dermot. I had the opportunity to meet and enjoy the wonderful music of Dermot (and Denis & Fergus) during the late 60's at the Strand Lounge and later during the George Street Festival on several occasions. In fact, I saw and listened to Dermot (and Fergus) during the George Street Festival in 2005.and chatted with him during a break in the program. That was the last time I saw him in person.

I will never forget the wonderful music as I have always had a passion for Irish music. And, Fergus, you guys were the greatest. Keep it up as a memorial to your friend.

To his family, may it be of some comfort to know that he is being fondly remembered during this difficult time by all who had the pleasure of knowing him either personally or through his superb entertainment. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.

Lloyd House
Bellburns, NL

It was very sad to hear about Dermot's passing. I fondly remember his music and songs years ago in the Strand Lounge. He will always be remembered.

My sincere condolences to his family and friends.

Wayne Green
St. John's

I was so sorry to hear of Dermot's passing. He was truly a wonderful musician. Growing up in Arnold's Cove, Ryan's Fancy was certainly a major part of my life. I've listened to them with friends, family and even alone. Just this past October, I had the opportunity to hear both him and Fergus atO'Reilly's pub. It was just fantastic. To this day, I enjoy the wonderful recordings both new and old that bring me so much joy. Dermot, as well as
Fergus and Denis were well known in all the homes around Placentia Bay.
My thoughts are with his family and his many friends. May he rest in peace.

Lindsay Barrett
Arnold's Cove

I'm looking AT a copy of "A Portrait of Ryan's Fancy, Dark Island". It Is one of my most prized possessions. I remember sitting with Ralph O'Brien and having a drink of "london dock" at no charge, I might add.
Truly Irish and Newfoundland Hospitality.

Niall Butt
Carbonear, NL

Growing up, the music of Ryan's Fancy brought my soul alive. I loved to listen to you and watch you on TV, and when I was old enough, to watchyou on stage. When you were given a lifetime achievement award on the ECMA's, and you performed, I stood to your attention and cried. I cried for the beauty of your voices, the memory of the past, and the pride thatI felt for you. Thank you for being a part of our Newfoundland Culture. I feel very saddened by the loss of Dermot O'Reilly

Cathy
St. John's

The first time I met Dermot O'Reilly I asked if I could interview him for one of my university courses, and without hesitation he said yes. I was so nervous about interviewing someone who was known as such a legend, but after several seconds into the interview he just made me feel so comfortable that I finally managed to calm down. He not only answered my questions, but was nice enough to take me around the Arts and Culture
Centre to show me pictures of Ryan's Fancy performances and tell me many stories
about his experiences over the years. Not only did I receive a great mark on my paper, but I also had the opportunity to meet a true talent and true gentleman as well. He will be sorely missed!!

Kristy Peet,
Mount Pearl

My thoughts are with Dermot's family and his long time friend Fergus. Enjoyed your music for as long as I can remember and Dermot you will be greatly missed. R.I.P. your music will live on forever.

Jolene Ryan

A dear and beautiful man,
He loved Newfoundland,
had so many fans.

He will be that song, that lives forever inside our hearts

you will be missed,
Scott Tizzard
Calgary, AB

God blessed Dermot with an amazing talent which he happily shared with others and in doing so brought endless enjoyment to all. I did get the opportunity to chat with Dermot from time to time as well as sing and dance to his music. The world has lost an incredible man! Thank you Dermot for all the happy times you have given me. You will truly be missed by so many. Rest in Peace and may God bless your family!!!

Ann Ryan
Toronto, ON

Dermot was a great musician and wonderful person--He will be sadly missed--

Fred/Susan

Ann, children, Denis and Fergus:

Is trua liom bhur gcaill (I'm sorry for your trouble) is the terse and apt way we have here in expressing our sorrow at the loss of a dear one or friend. And Dermot's is a deep loss indeed.

It must be some comfort to you to know that so many have written to you with loving words of sympathy and consolation. Joyce and I join in that wide circle of friends and hold hands with them in memory of a songs-smith, singer, a character and funny man, loving husband and father, friend.

I borrow the words of the great Scottish song-smith, Robert Burns and apply them to Dermot: “If there’s a life hereafter, he lives in bliss; if not, he made the best of this.”

Aidan O' Hara
Longford
Ireland.

Our thoughts and prayers are with family .He was a great man and his legend will never be forgotten

Phonse and Jackie Haley
Lawn ,NL

I had the great privilege of meeting Dermot O'Reilly a few weeks ago when he and Fergus O'Byrne played at O'Reilly's Pub. Not only was he a great performer, but a wonderful person as well. He talked to me for 10 or 15 minutes as if we'd known each other for years. He made me feel very welcome that night, and I enjoyed myself very much watching him perform. It's sad to see him go, but he will forever be remembered.

Justin Bowman,
Carbonear, NL

Sometimes meeting someone you have admired for years can let you down. You realize that they are not larger than life but just a person like anyone else. That was not the case with Dermot. He was a person like everyone else but he was more than that. His disarming smile, quick wit and kind manner disallowed hero worship, but the giant hero was replaced with a bigger friend.

His memory for me is one of good nature, good humour and good friends. I would not presume to call my self a friend of his but I can say without hesitation that he was a friend of mine. I only worked with him for a while and learned so much from him. When he spoke I learned and I laughed. Many times I would smile so much that it made my cheeks hurt, but from now on when I think of him I will smile but its my heart that will hurt.

Deepest sympathy to Ann and family

Perry Eddy
Edmonton, AB
(Formerly of Sunnyside)

Just a great guy who always made your day better just by coming into it. In the early years I only knew Dermot as one of the fans but even then he managed to make one feel special.

One night in the early 70s a friend and I entered an establishment in Toronto where the boys were in the middle of a tune. Dermot apparently recognized us as followers who had been in the audience perhaps more than once at the "The Black Knight" and at the university in Halifax because as soon as they finished the tune he looked over at us and smiled as he broke into "Farewell to Nova Scotia".
Of course we puffed up like peacocks and sang along A great moment for a couple of
Maritimers far from home. Over the years I discovered that sort of thing was typical.

Years later I met him when he played at my brother Scott's wedding in Trepassey, which
was a great night, but the best memory I have of him is shown in the enclosed snap.

In 1990 after Christmas I traveled to Newfoundland for New Year's with Scott and his in-laws; A few days before the big night Scott invited Dermot over to have a jar.
After a little encouragement he picked up Scott's guitar and sang "A Children's Winter" to my nephew Mhorgan who was only about six months old. Mhorgan was enthralled as
were we. It still brings a tear to my eye whenever I see the photo or hear the song.

Rest in peace, Dermot
Thom Gillis, Halifax

This is a snapshot of Dermot playing "A Children's Winter" to my son Mhorgan Gillis on Old Christmas Day, 1990 when my son was only 7 months old. To me it epitomizes Dermot's character.

Scott Gillis
St. John's

He was the root of Irish folk culture. It is because of Dermot's influence that I have vowed to myself that I have to visit Ireland at least once in my lifetime. His strong deep voice, his creative writing, his exceptional handling of guitar and mandolin, all made him one of the greatest folk artists, ever. One of the last times I saw him perform was on a stage at the Halifax waterfront during tall ships. He sang the Grey Funnel Line. The feeling, the emotion, the very heart that he put into that performance still haunts me to this day. With a lump in my throat, I simply stood in awe as that voice from the green hills of Ireland, filled the downtown and carried out across the harbour and the city. When I read on the news
that he passed, I took out my guitar and did my best to get through a rendition
of the Curraugh of Kildare...my little tribute to an absolute icon.
Dermot thank you for being here. The West Country is so much better for your having passed this way.

Bill Flowers
Halifax

Being a self taught musician I was and still am greatly influenced by Their music. I play guitar and mandolin as well. My heartfelt Condolences to you Ann and to your Kids. I listen to their music everyday while traveling to and from work . "West Country Lady" is my Favourite.

Paul Ryan
From Spaniard's Bay, living in Lawrencetown, NS

You will always be remembered as the Guy with the great big smile & fantastic Voice

Ann & Stewart Galloway

There are no words that could truly express how fortunate I feel to have had the privilege of listening to Dermot and his music. I will always be astonished that two men (Dermot, and Fergus) could play on a stage and sound as if there were ten instruments up there. I and my wife will truly miss the joy of waltzing around the floor to some of the greatest music the world will ever know. On many occasions as we left the dance floor we were thanked by those two fine gentlemen for dancing. The honor, however, was truly ours to be thankful for. Our condolences go out to all of his family and friends. I can only hope they take some comfort in hearing through these messages the delight and enjoyment he brought to so many people lives.

Regards,
Loyola

I would like to say that we have lost a great pioneer, friend and mentor... and to Fergus I know what it's like to loose a best friend, a brother... chin up my friend and play like you never played before he would have loved that.

Jeff, Chelsea, John & Renee Parsons
St. Phillips NL

Dear Ann & Family
We meet the Boys as we called them many years ago through Jim & Shirley MacNeill
we had lots of good times with them .
We were building two new Church's in Hampton New Brunswick I think it was 1981 & the Boys came & did a fantastic concert for us everybody loved them.
Dermot was a very special person to all who meet him & with a voice like no other
God Bless you all & we will keep all of you in our Prayers

Ann & Stewart Galloway
Hampton
New Brunswick

It was with great sadness i heard of Dermot's passing. I first met Dermot back in 1971 in Halifax in the early days of Ryan's Fancy. He was a frequent quest along with Dennis and Fergus at our house at South West Margaree in Cape Breton. Thanks for the great memories and may you rest in peace Dermot.

David Gillis
Scotsville
Cape Breton Island

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Obituary

Media coverage of the passing of Dermot O'Reilly:

Mourners remember Dermot
(Audio)

Ryan's Fancy retrospective
from 2004 ECMA's

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

Thanks to Shawn Fulford for this: