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Dublin Live
Dublin Live
National
Darragh Berry

RTE legend Gay Byrne 'didn't fear death' but had 'two dying wishes' say family

RTE legend Gay Byrne had just two dying wishes before he passed away according to his daughter Suzy.

November 4 marks the one-year anniversary of the 85-year-old TV and radio behemoth's sad death after a long battle with prostate cancer.

The Dubliner had a broadcasting career that spanned over six decades and he was at the anchor of The Late Late Show for over half of those 60 years. 

Speaking at the funeral of the presenter and journalist last year, Suzy said that her dad had accepted he was going to die.

In her eulogy to her beloved father, she said Gay only wanted two things before he was laid to rest.

Gay Byrne (Collins Photo Agency)

She said: "Dad had no fear of death. But, he did have two wishes: To be in his beloved Howth and not to suffer."

And he fulfilled those wishes with Suzy thanking everyone who waved him goodbye on the route to the church from Howth.

She added: "Thank you, Dad. You gave us words, ideas, music, songs. Often you made us laugh out loud and long. Beneath it all, you searched what was true. Thank you for that. And thank you most of all for being you."

His other daughter Crona Byrne took to her Facebook page to pay tribute on his anniversary also.

She said: "A year ago today you flew high, we said our final farewell to you. Wow, what a year it has been.

"Would love to know what you make of everything.

"We miss you so much and wish you were still by our sides. I know you are watching over us and guiding us in all we do. Love you loads dad."

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