Remembering the Legends: In Memoriam 2024 in Northern Ireland
Northern Ireland has bid farewell to many well-known faces over the past year, from political titans to broadcasting legends and sporting greats. As 2024 comes to a close, it is time to commemorate the notable figures we have said goodbye to in Northern Ireland. Belfast Live remembers some of those we bid farewell to this past year.
Tributes to Tommy Cassidy and Chris Nicholl
In August, Northern Ireland midfielder and World Cup ’82 hero Tommy Cassidy passed away at the age of 73 after battling Alzheimer’s. Cassidy won 24 caps for his country and played a pivotal role in the famous 1-0 win over 1982 hosts Spain. He also helped Northern Ireland win the British Home Championships in 1980. Cassidy started his playing career with Glentoran before moving to Newcastle United, where he made 239 appearances and reached the FA Cup final in 1974.
Former Northern Ireland and Southampton star Chris Nicholl also left us in February at the age of 77. Nicholl enjoyed a successful career with Burnley, Halifax Town, Luton, Aston Villa, and Southampton, where he twice won the League Cup.
Remembering Stephen Grimason and Ken Reid
In April, veteran Northern Ireland journalist Stephen Grimason passed away at the age of 67 after an illness. Grimason, a former BBC Northern Ireland political editor, played a significant role in breaking the news of the historic Belfast/Good Friday Agreement in 1998. He was a respected figure in the world of journalism, having worked for various newspapers and media outlets.
November saw the passing of veteran Northern Ireland journalist Ken Reid at the age of 69 after an illness. Reid was best known as the long-time political editor of UTV and reported on many of the worst atrocities of the Troubles before chronicling the peace process.
Shocking Loss of Liam Payne and Tommie Gorman
In October, there was widespread shock around the world after Liam Payne died at the age of 31 in a tragic accident. Payne, a former member of the boy band One Direction, passed away after falling from a hotel balcony in Buenos Aires.
Tommie Gorman, an acclaimed former RTE journalist, died in June at the age of 68. Gorman worked for RTE for over 40 years and was known for his insightful reporting and interviews with prominent figures.
David Davin-Power and Nell McCafferty’s Legacy
Former broadcaster and political correspondent David Davin-Power passed away in late October at the age of 72. Davin-Power had a distinguished career with RTE News and was a respected voice in Irish journalism.
Renowned author, journalist, and feminist activist Nell McCafferty died in August at the age of 80. McCafferty was a trailblazer in the fight for women’s rights in Ireland and made significant contributions to journalism and activism.
A Tribute to Gloria Hunniford, Stephen Way, and Trevor Campbell
In August, Gloria Hunniford announced the passing of her husband of more than 20 years, Stephen Way. Way was a beloved figure and left a lasting impact on those who knew him.
Veteran Northern Ireland radio broadcaster Trevor “Big T” Campbell passed away in November at the age of 78. Campbell was one of Downtown Radio’s most recognizable voices and interviewed some of the biggest stars in country music.
John Bennett’s Enduring Legacy
Much-loved BBC Northern Ireland broadcaster John Bennett passed away in July at the age of 82. Bennett had a remarkable career spanning 60 years and was known for his passion for music and engaging interviews with celebrities.
Candy Devine’s Lasting Impact
In October, tributes were paid to former Downtown Radio presenter Candy Devine, who passed away in her native Australia at the age of 85. Devine was a household name in Northern Ireland and made significant contributions to the world of broadcasting.
As we bid farewell to these beloved figures, their legacies will continue to inspire and resonate with us. Their contributions to Northern Ireland and beyond will always be remembered and cherished.
