- Culture
- 06 Feb 18
Philip Casey, who was best known for his acclaimed Bann trilogy and who also the founder of the Irish Writers Online website, has passed away at the age of 67.
He was also the author of four acclaimed collections of poetry and some of his novels were published by Picador, a giant in the publishing industry.
He was born in London to Irish parents, but grew up on a farm outside Gorey, Co Wexford. He went on to live in Spain for a few years, but based himself in Dublin for most of his life.
President Michael D. Higgins released a statement this morning, saying: "It is with great sadness that I have learned of the death of Philip Casey, one of Ireland’s finest poets and novelists, and distinguished member of Aosdána."
He said that Philip Casey was a "treasured author" who "produced a magnificent body of work that enriched Irish writing. His poetry gave voice to every aspect of life; joy, pain, hope, justice and love in its many forms".
He added:"His generous nature, his humour and his literary talents will be missed by all those who were familiar with his work or were privileged to call him a friend.
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"To his brothers Peter and John and his sister Karina, his colleagues and friends, Sabina and I send our deepest sympathy."
Ar dheis dé go raibh a anam dílis.