Irish broadcaster, harpist, author, and widow of RTÉ broadcaster Gay Byrne, Kathleen Watkins, has passed away, surrounded by her family.

On New Year's Eve 1961, Watkins was the first continuity announcer to appear on screen during the launch of Telefís Éireann, Ireland's new television station. Watkins also worked as a folk singer and harpist. In her later years, Ms Watkins created a series of children's books featuring a piglet character named Pigín, which was awarded an Irish Book Award.

She was married to radio host and Irish presenter Gay Byrne from 1964 until his death in 2019.

In a statement, her family said, "Kathleen's family is devasted by the loss of their much-loved mother, and devoted Nana Kit, to her grandchildren Cian, Sadhbh, Kate, Saoirse and Harry."

Taoiseach Simon Harris expressed his respect for Ms. Watkins in a statement issued yesterday saying “Kathleen was a magnetic person with a warm and witty personality and presence, as well as her considerable artistic talent."

Crona and Suzy, her daughters, sons-in-law, and five grandchildren, survive her.