Funeral details published for 'much-loved' Ballymena-born TV star Gerry Kelly
Funeral details have been published for the much-loved Ballymena-born broadcaster Gerry Kelly.
A family notice on the Funeral Times website said Gerry, who was 77, died peacefully at his late residence in Ardglass on Sunday (July 26).
He was, the notice added, the dearly beloved husband of Helena. Loving father of Sarah and Claire. Dear father-in-law of William. Cherished grandfather to Bronwyn, Tadhg and Rory. Much loved brother of Stella, Danny and the late Patricia and Kathleen, a loving brother-in-law to the Fleming family, uncle and friend.
His funeral will take place from his late residence on Wednesday (July 29) at 12.30pm for 1.00pm Requiem Mass in St Nicholas’ Church, Ardglass. Interment afterwards in the adjoining Calvary Cemetery.
Donations in lieu of flowers, if desired, were invited to N.I Hospice c/o seamusfitzsimons.co.uk/donations.
The family requested their home remains private to family and close friends.
Tributes have poured in for Gerry, who was best-known for his long-running UTV chat show, Kelly, on which he interviewed a host of star names in his own inimitable manner.
The show ran for over 15 years before he moved on to new challenges. His familiar voice was heard over the airwaves of BBC Radio Ulster on Fridays and Saturday.
And latterly, guests were put at their ease at E3 studios, Belfast Metropolitan College, during his series Conversations With Gerry Kelly, which transmitted on That’s TV and also Sky.
Away from the spotlight, the former lecturer and keen golfer’s charity work included serving as president of the Northern Ireland Children to Lapland and Days to Remember Trust, which organises an annual festive trip for young people with life threatening or life limiting conditions.
In a statement on Sunday, the charity said: “Gerry Kelly has been a trustee and board member since the Northern Ireland Children to Lapland and Days to Remember Trust was formed in 2008 and has been a very hands on president since 2019.
"His death today, after a short illness, has robbed us all of a true friend. His wise council and presence will be sadly missed, but the memories of the fun and laughter we shared will live on.”
Gerry had also spoken previously in media interviews about his fight with bladder cancer.
Local celebrities and entertainers were among those paying tribute after the death of the award-winning broadcaster was announced.
Musician Peter Corry said: “Very sad to hear that Gerry Kelly has passed away. He was a big champion of mine in the early days of my career and became a good friend.
"His weekly TV show was so important for entertainment in NI and to performers here.”
Radio and TV music presenter Ralph McLean said it was “desperately sad” news. He added: "A natural broadcaster, great family man and always a gentleman.
“He made it all look so easy – always a sign of class. Thoughts with his family and loved ones at this tough time.”
The Deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly referenced one of Gerry’s most iconic TV moments in her tribute.
She said: “So sorry to hear of the death of Gerry Kelly, a face and a voice that so many generations across Northern Ireland were familiar with.
"A much loved presenter with a huge character. He interviewed so many, many hundreds of people across decades including his famous clip with a young Rory McIlroy and the wash machine.
"Thinking of all his family and friends at this time of mourning, sending my deepest condolences and may God be with them and comfort them at this time of sad loss.”