'A pillar of Limerick theatre': Tributes paid to late actor and mentor

TRIBUTES are pouring in for the late John Murphy, a talented Limerick actor, director and writer.

Mr Murphy passed away at Cork University Hospital on August 21.

It is understood that the Greystones native died as a result of a fall.

During his prolific career in the performing arts field, he worked with Island Theatre Company, the Belltable, and the Lime Tree Theatre.

Tribute after tribute have praised Mr Murphy’s kindness, often concealed beneath his “gruff” exterior, and his talent as an actor, director and mentor.

Cllr Shane Hickey O’Mara, formerly the artistic director of County Limerick Youth Theatre, deemed Mr Murphy “a pillar of Limerick theatre”. 

“I had the fortune of working on many shows with him over the years and seeing him perform in so many more. He’s such a huge loss & our community is heartbroken,” the City North councillor added.

He recalled how, upon being elected, Mr Murphy told him he “better not get too big for (his) boots!”.

“I'm going to miss John so much. He was an amazing mentor in directing, an astute and knowledgeable colleague, and a man with a heart of gold. Sincere condolences to his family at this sad time,” he added, in a tribute on RIP.ie.

In a joint Instagram post, the Lime Tree Theatre and the Belltable said, "The staff of the Lime Tree Theatre and Belltable are heartbroken at the loss of John Murphy, our close friend and colleague. John was an integral part of our team and was loved by all of us”.

They announced that both theatres will remain closed on Monday, August 26.

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Bottom Dog Theatre Company said, “Our dear friend and colleague John Murphy passed away yesterday after a tragic accident.

“A champion of Limerick theatre, a storyteller, actor, director, writer and believer in the power of the arts to transform and heal.

“He will be missed by so many and will never be forgotten.”

Cllr Olivia O'Sullivan said, "This is very sad news for the Limerick arts community. It’s hard to imagine Limerick theatre without John, it feels from the fringes like he has been a permanent fixture as far back as I can remember. My sympathies to John’s parents and family, and all who were close to him."

Sylvia McCloskey offered her condolences to Mr Murphy’s family on behalf of the Cecilian Musical Society, adding “Encor John”.

He will be sadly missed by his loving family, parents Olga & George, brother Frank, niece Melissa, great nieces, cousins, relatives, neighbours and his many friends from the arts community.

Mr Murphy will repose in Griffin’s Funeral Home, on Monday, August 26 from 1pm to 3pm, and will arrive at Shannon Crematorium at 4pm for the funeral service.

His family have asked that donations, if desired, be made to Limerick Animal Welfare.

May he Rest In Peace.