Gifted Limerick artist remembered as a ‘true legend’

HEARTFELT tributes have been paid to the late Limerick artist and photographer Billy Hayes, whose talent will ‘always be remembered.’

He passed peacefully at Milford Care Centre on Friday.

Originally from Killalee, Billy was a naturally gifted artist, graphic designer and photographer, well known for his beautiful artwork – including a black-and-white portrait of actor Richard Harris. 

“Lots of heavy hearts in Limerick tonight. Another absolute gem and true legend has left us. Sleep well, Billy Hayes. We had some good laughs. The occasional Zoom call during lockdown and your generosity in helping with the artwork for Joe Browne’s album meant a lot to me. As a fan of Billy’s artwork, I was never anything less than stunned every time I saw a new piece. Billy was one of the most naturally gifted artists out there. If you’ve ever been out in Limerick, you’ve probably admired some of his work. Sleep well, Billy. They broke the mould,” remembered a friend. 

“I’m fxcking devastated to hear of the passing of Billy Hayes. Billy was a brilliant brilliant artist and inspiration. And more importantly, a complete gowl… in other words a great friend … we had many passionate conversations about art and photography. I’m gutted his spark is gone… A massive massive loss to Limerick…,” wrote another friend in tribute on Facebook.

Beloved son of Bill and the late Helen. Dearly loved by his brother Paul, Carolyn and Stephen. Sadly missed by his loving sisters-in-law Anne and Sinead, brother-in-law Mike, nephews and nieces, extended family and by a wide circle of very close friends.

Reposing at Thompson’s Funeral Home, Thomas Street, this Monday, June 12 from 7pm to 8.30pm.

Funeral arriving at St. John’s Cathedral, Cathedral Place, on Tuesday, June 13 for Requiem Mass at 12 noon, followed by burial in Mount St. Lawrence (Extension) Cemetery.

Flowers welcome or donations, if desired, to Milford Care Centre.

Billy’s Requiem Mass will be live-streamed here.