Kathleen Watkins has revealed she has been clearing out Gay Byrne’s old office in their home.
The couple were married for 55 years before Gay passed away on November 4 2019 after a long battle with cancer.
Kathleen has released a book of poetry and is currently working on a follow-up with publisher Gill Books.
Speaking to Ray D’Arcy on RTE Radio One on Thursday, Kathleen said: “I’m doing my best in more ways than one.
“I’m alone, of course, but my daughter, Suzy, is filling my fridge regularly and my niece, Susan, is flying around looking after the three widowed Watkins sisters.
“I have been tidying up Gay’s office, where I’m speaking to you now from.
“After a lifetime of broadcasting, there’s a lot to be tidied up.
“I’m also putting together five lots of photographs for each of my five grandchildren, so they’ll each have a box.
“And I’m exercising a little bit of every hour if I can.
“In the afternoon I have a snooze, and I’m sparkling after that.
“I’m not big into technology but because I’m forced to be here on my own, it’s amazing what you’re learning when you have to.”
Kathleen also recited a poem called Love after Love, by poet Derek Walcott.
After the reading, listeners were quick to respond to the beautiful recital.
Liz from Offaly said: “Lovely to hear Kathleen Watkins, such a strong and lovely lady.
“Gay is so missed and what a lovely poetry reading.”
Barry from Carrigaline in Cork added: “So great to listen to the soothing tones of Kathleen Watkins, wishing her well.”
