The funeral of Penneys founder Arthur Ryan will be held this Saturday following his death at the age of 83.
The renowned retail boss passed away peacefully after a short illness at his home in Ballsbridge in Dublin on July 8, surrounded by his loving family.
A death notice on RIP.ie reads: "The founder of Penneys/Primark was one of the most successful and internationally respected businessmen Ireland has ever produced.
"He is mourned by his wife of thirty four years Alma, his daughters Jessica and Alison, his sons Colin and Arthur and also his grandchildren Ella, Christian, Arthur, Charlotte, Georgia, Chloe, Riley, Joe and Emily and his sisters Anne and Louise, his son-in-law Rory and daughters-in-law Fiona, Kay and Ann. Predeceased by his son Barry and grandson Barry Jnr."
Mr Ryan's body will lie in repose at Fanagan's Funeral Home on Aungier Street, from 5pm until 7pm on Friday, July 12, with his family in attendance.
A Funeral Mass will be held at the Church of the Sacred Heart, Donnybrook, at 2pm on Saturday, July 13, followed by cremation at Mount Jerome Crematorium, Harold’s Cross.
The family have requested that their house is kept private. Donations, if desired, may be made to Cancer Clinical Research Trust www.ccrt.ie.
Tributes poured in for the fashion icon, with Primark boss Paul Marchant being one of the first to pay his respects.
He said: “Arthur Ryan was a truly gifted retailer and a visionary leader.
“He was a true retail pioneer. He innovated and was never complacent, despite many successes.
“He challenged us all to be the best we can be. His legacy will continue in the business that he founded and built.
“Those of us who worked closely with him will cherish his friendship and wisdom and he will be hugely missed by all of his Primark family.”
