"A Great Friend And Father"- Funeral Of Donal Lunny Takes Place

Monday, 2 November 2026 at 11:30

His funeral mass took place on Saturday in St Conleth's Church, Kildare.

"Not only was he a great friend and father, he was the best possible person to work with."

That's how Donal Lunny has been remembered by his son Oisin at his funeral, as the innovative trad musician was laid to rest on Saturday in St Conleth's Church, Kildare.

The Tullamore man passed away last month at the age of 79.

Saturday's congragation made sure the service was full of the sounds of music to highlight the profound impact Donal Lunny had on the Irish music scene and beyond.

The Tullamore man had a long career of both preforming on stage and producing folk music, having been a founding member of bands such as The Bothy Band and Planxty.

Donal's daughter Cora Lunny says he was full of mischief, and also remembered his efforts to raise money for Palestine:

While his son Oisin also shared memories of hitting the road with him, working with him on musical projects when he was older, and paid tribute to his musical strength:

Cora also said it was thanks to Donal's partner Una that he had been able to get back on the road touring in recent months, including an apperance at this year's Electric Picnic.

She read some words on Una's behalf: