It was with a great personal sadness that we learned of the death yesterday, Thursday 28th November 2019, of renowned guitarist & songwriter, Mr Philip Donnelly, Clonmel, South Co. Tipperary and formerly Clontarf, Dublin
Mr Donnelly passed away peacefully, while in the care of University Hospital, Waterford, surrounded by those who loved him.
Musical genius Mr Philip Donnelly, affectionately known as “The Clontarf Cowboy”, had, during his lifetime toured with household named singing artists like Johnny Cash, The Everly Brothers, John Prine, Emmylou Harris, Nanci Griffith, Townes Van Zandt, Donovan, Don Williams, Sara Dee, Ray Lynam, Clannad, Joe Ely, Kathy Mataya, Lyle Lovett, Hal Ketchum to name but a few.
Philip co-wrote (With Sam Hogin and Roger Cook) Crystal Gayle’s number one wonderful hit song ‘Living in these Troubled Times’, latter released in August 1982, as the third single from the album Hollywood, Tennessee. The song reached No. 9 on the Billboard Hot Country Singles & Tracks chart.
His gold discs included bass-baritone singer the late Don Williams‘ (1939-2017) million selling album ‘I Believe in Love’, regarded as one of the biggest Country Singles of all time.
Mr Donnelly married artist Ms Jessica Roth in 1990. Miss Roth was also living in South Tipperary at that time and following the marriage they had a son together, before getting divorced. However, though separated, the family remained very good friends.
His passing is most deeply regretted by his brother Gerard; son Brian; grandson Matson; Jessica; Fiona; Aegina; Ciaran; Orla; extended relatives and many friends.
Requiescat in Pace.
Funeral Arrangements
The earthly remains of Mr Donnelly will lie in repose at Stafford’s Funeral Home, No.60 North Strand Road, Dublin 3, on Monday evening next, December 2nd, from 4:00pm to 6:00pm.
Removal will take place on Tuesday morning, December 3rd, to St. John the Baptist Church, No.15 Seafield Road, Clontarf east, Co. Dublin, arriving for 10:00am Funeral Mass, followed by burial in St. Colmcille’s Cemetery, Swords, Co. Dublin.
Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam dílis.
Thanks for the guitar strap during your Elmer Fudd days and for your friendship when picking along many times. My wife and I will hold memories of your kind heart forever. Thanks Philip. R.I.P. Matt and Patricia Manning.
Genius