The late Jim Hayes The death of Jimmy Hayes, Caherue, Dundrum, singer, sportsman, storyteller, farmer, a giant of local culture and above all, an Irish gentleman of the highest quality, had left all who had the privilege of knowing him deeply mourning his death. His powerful singing voice and vast reservoir of Irish Songs old and new made him a most sought after entertainer over several decades. Apart from his singing Jimmy was a wonderful conversationalist and a top raconteur of amusing, informative and accurate happenings that he experienced and heard during his lifetime. He was a cultural figure of significance who had made a considerable contribution through his songs, folklore and tales during his life not alone in his own region but in many parts of Ireland especially in Lisdoonvarna and on the European stage as well, particularly in Germany, where he got widespread acclaim when part of an Irish performing tour group in Berlin and several other centres. As a member of the Irish Bardic Federation Jimmy was such a popular and active performer, his presence always guaranteed a quality evening of entertainment. He was a man who I never heard utter an unkind word and sought only the good in people. Jimmy always chose to light a candle rather than speak ill of the darkness. Very often one of his songs brought a smile to a sad face and dispersed a cloud of worry and concern that lingered in peoples minds. He had an infectious atmosphere of perpetual good humour radiating from him that that was uplifting and relaxing for all in his company. As a neighbour and local community person he was exemplary, generous and ever available to fill whatever role was required of him. As a Gael Jimmy Hayes loved hurling and was proud of his involvement with Eire Og. GAA club. As a culbaire he enjoyed success at senior and junior level winning West Tipperary championships during hurling career. The Hayes family home at Caherue Lower during the War of Independence sheltered many times the soldiers of the Third Tipp Brigade Irish Republican Army at great personal risk to their lives and property. Jimmy throughout his life had a great love of Ireland and a deep respect for the memory of all who served Ireland in the struggle to achieve freedom from England. We will miss him from the Soloheadbeg Commemoration and the Dan Breen mass in Donohill as well as every gathering for the Bardic Federation. In the midst of a large gathering Jimmy was laid to rest after requiem mass, in the hallowed soil of Annacarty, on a lovely August day. Bridget Hogan in song and Bobby Gardiner in music paid Jimmy a deserved graveside cultural farewell. They were two of this great friends. His coffin was draped in the colours of Eire Og. The songster from Caherue was gently laid to rest having received all that his church and community could bestow upon him. Our deepest sympathy to his family. On a fine mid August day in Annacartys hallowed clay We placed to rest Jim Hayes the songster from Caherue. His melodic voice is stilled and with sadness we are filled For a brother Bard and Gael an Irish man loyal and true. Courtesy of The Tipperary Star 07 October 2006 Tweet

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