Tributes as Big Tom dies
Fianna Fáil Spokesperson on Arts and TD for Cavan-Monaghan Niamh Smyth says the Irish music industry has lost a legend following the announcement of the death of Big Tom McBride.
“I was deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Big Tom this morning. He was an Irish music legend and a true gentleman”, said Deputy Smyth.
“Big Tom is a household name, not only in Ireland, but in many parts of the UK. He was a stalwart of the showband and country music scene with his band The Mainliners, with a career spanning more than 50 years.
“From Four Country Roads to Gentle Mother, his hits have travelled far and wide, earning him the title of the King of Country Music. Despite being a living legend, Tom was always an extremely humble and gentle man. Oram, Castleblayney to his core, he always spoke proudly about his Monaghan roots.
“Irish music has truly lost a legend today. I want to extend my sympathies to his family and friends.
The Diocesan Administrator of the Diocese of Clogher, Monsignor Joseph McGuinness, issued the following statement on behalf of the diocese: “Like many people around the country, we have all learned with great sadness of the death of Big Tom. The word ‘legend’ is often overused on occasions like this, but in Tom’s case it is truly fitting and well deserved. During his life, Tom brought great joy to many people, both in Ireland and worldwide, through his singing and his music. His contribution to Irish social and cultural life in this area has been enormous.
“But Tom McBride was more than just a singer. Above all, he was a family man. Tom, and his late wife Rose, formed a strong team in their household and in the wider community. Tom was a pivotal member of the community in his native Oram, where he contributed greatly through farming and sport. He was very proud of that community and of County Monaghan in general.
“On behalf of the priests and people of the Diocese of Clogher, I pray that God will grant Big Tom eternal rest and I extend to his family our prayers and sincere sympathy at this time.”
Fine Gael Senator for Cavan and Monaghan, Joe O’Reilly has extended his sympathies to the family and friends of Big Tom. Senator O’Reilly spoke in Seanad Éireann about the positive impact Big Tom had for many people through his music.
"He was the voice for, and of an entire generation. Big Tom brought people together when he performed, and his music often connected with people who had emigrated to other countries across the world.
“I was pleased to have met Big Tom on a number of occasions, and he most certainly was an absolute gentleman, and always down-to-earth.
He said: “Through his music, Big Tom brought joy through his performances to many people and into many communities in bleak times. Big Tom truly was the Gentle Giant from Castleblaney."
Funeral Arrangements
Husband of the late Rose Mc Bride, Tom is survived by family, Thomas, Dermot, Aisling and Siobhan, his sister Madge, grandchildren, nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.
There will be an opportunity for the many fans and friends to pay their respects between 12 noon and 8pm on Wednesday in Oram Community Centre where Tom will be on Public Reposal. (House Strictly Private). Removal on Friday morning for Funeral Mass at 11am in St. Patrick’s Church, Oram, with burial afterwards in the adjoining cemetery. Funeral Mass will be broadcast live on Northern Sound FM.