Johnny McEvoy’s family share private funeral plans as they mourn the beloved folk singer

Johnny McEvoy’s family have announced the arrangements to remember the Irish singer-songwriter, describing themselves as heartbroken after his death at home on Sunday, November 8. In their notice, his passing was called “the closing of the final curtain”. The ceremony celebrating McEvoy’s life will be private, in keeping with his wishes. Those who want to pay their respects can gather as the funeral cortège leaves Greystones Harbour Marina at 2.20pm on Saturday, November 14. It is due to travel along Cliff Road and Marine Road by the seafront, a route the singer reportedly enjoyed walking each day. His family have asked for no flowers. Anyone wishing to make a donation in his memory can contribute to the Dublin Simon Community, according to the notice. McEvoy, who was born in Banagher, County Offaly, in 1945, is survived by his children Jonathan and Alice, grandchildren Kyle, Isabella and Cinéad, and wider family. He was predeceased by his wife Odette, whom the family described as his beloved wife and best friend, as well as his parents and several siblings. His companion Mary, friends, neighbours, colleagues, manager Darren and fans were also named among those who will miss him. He began performing professionally at 18 after an early interest in folk music and storytelling. His breakthrough came in 1966, when “Muirsheen Durkin” spent three weeks at number one, the family’s account noted. Other songs associated with his career include “Long Before Your Time”, “Michael”, “Going To California” and “The Planters Daughter”, a love song connected to Odette. In an interview with RSVP Country the previous year, McEvoy said he had been drawn to stories from childhood and recalled that he began singing while working at an advertising agency. He marked his 80th birthday with a quiet family gathering, saying he wanted to spend the occasion around a table with those closest to him.