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06 Sept 2025
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06 Sept 2025
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The funeral details for famous singer-songwriter Johnny Duhan have been announced after his death while swimming off the coast of Co Galway earlier this week.
The 74-year-old’s body was found following a search after he was reported missing having not returned from his daily swim at Silver Strand beach in Galway Bay on Tuesday, November 12.
Mr Duhan was best known as the writer of 'The Voyage', a song made famous by Christy Moore on his 1989 album.
He is survived by his wife Maureen and their five children and 10 grandchildren, siblings and extended family.
On his death notice on RIP.ie, it states “he is deeply missed by his heartbroken wife Maureen with whom he started his voyage 54 years ago," and "treasured by his beloved crew of five children: Ronan, Niamh, Kevin, Ailbhe and Brian, as well as his daughter-in-law Siobhan, sons-in-law Padraic and Ian and Brian’s partner Emma".
It goes on to say he is "adored by his precious grandchildren: Aoibheann, Alanna, Caitlin, Saoirse, Hannah, Aimee, Dylan, Ryan, Sonny, and Paidi. His brothers Eric, Barry, Michael, and sisters Joan, Kay, Patti, and Suzanne, along with the Biggins family Paddy and Sarah, and Dorry and Teresa and along with his in-laws and all of his dear friends, neighbours and devoted fans."
Taoiseach Simon Harris led the tributes, describing it as “terribly sad news” from Galway and added: “Johnny Duhan was a renowned and much loved songwriter.
“Thinking of his family and loved ones at this very sad time.”
Former Sinn Fein president Gerry Adams said on X: “I’m really sorry to hear of the death of Johnny Duhan. One of our finest songwriters and creative writers.”
Johnny will be reposing at the 'Cillin' within the Church of the Mary Immaculate Queen, Barna on Thursday, November 14 from 5-7pm.
Private removal from Johnny's house on Friday, November 15 to St Killians Chruch, New Inn for 1pm Funeral Mass, followed by burial afterwards in Killaan Cemetery, Woodlawn.
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