RIP: READY remembers the late Pat Butler

READY members were shocked by the recent death of much loved musician Patrick Butler late of Clonaderig, Ballinahown, County Offaly, who died on August 8 2025

PRO Phil Newton extended the group's ''sincere condolences to his lovely wife and soulmate Catherine, to his mother Maura and to everyone who knew and loved him.''

''Pat was a magnificent musician. Music – the sweetness of the heavens transformed the room when he played.

He was also a gifted craftsman, and hand made musical instruments which were purchased by the famous. Guitars made from rainbow poplar. One could imagine the little people dancing in enchantment in the magic of his melodies,'' said Phil.

READY members are so lucky and so privileged to remember Pat and the lovely tunes lodged in our memories. Pat, thank you for the lovely memories you have left with us. Worth more than gold,'' concluded Phil Newton.

Pat was a late Bord na Mona worker. Tributes poured in on his RIP page.

''I will really miss all the chats we had on the phone, Above in his workshop, (.Pat's Sanctuary.)
One could write a book on all the fabulous pieces that came out of that workshop. Pat had brilliant hands, and brains to match. An absolute wizard with any type of wood. Long live his memories.''

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''All the good memories we have of Pat's music in the house, all the singsongs,travelling with Pat, great nights, A great friend and neighbour, we will miss Pat. What a turn out at Pat's funeral, all Pats true friends turned out from far and near.''

''Paddy was a gentle soul with a quiet love and reverence for music. Had great skill in creating guitars and took great pride in adorning his finished product with a few sweet melodies. I was so proud to be in the same class as Paddy in St. Sarans. My abiding memory is when we both stood at a clapped out piano in St. Sarans playing 'Knowing me Knowing you' by Abba. For 2 people like us who loved music knowing me, knowing you was deep, not needing much words. We didn’t meet that often after school, but the memories I have are rich and lasting. May your gentle musical soul rest in peace Paddy.''