Communities in Arranmore, Letterkenny and beyond are mourning the passing of Phil Bán Boyle, aged 85.
An island native, Phil Bán ran the well-known Teac Phil Bán. The pub remains a family-run business. He also operated an island ferry service and welcomed countless visitors to the island.
Mr Boyle lived in Beechwood Park Letterkenny in his later years.
He died peacefully, yesterday, surrounded by his loving family in the excellent care of the Donegal Hospice.
A beloved husband, father and grandfather, Phil leaves behind a large and loving family, including his wife Norah, children, John (Tara Court) Maire (Conwal), Claire (Guy) Brook Court, Yvonne (Ronan) Killyclug, Phil (Denise) Newmills, Thomas (Marina) Arranmore Island and his twelve grandchildren. He is predeceased by his daughter Grace.
Phil was a cherished friend to many and will be deeply missed by all who knew him.
The Arranmore Red Ferry team shared a tribute to Mr Boyle today and said: “We offer our deepest condolences to the family of the late Phil Bán. His name will always be remembered, every time a local comes into our office they recall their memories of travelling on the boat with Phil when they see the image below.”
Photo: Arranmore Ferry
Father John Joe Duffy, a native of Burtonport, has paid tribute to Mr Boyle and said: “His likes will not be seen again.”
“My sincere sympathies to Norah and the Boyle family on the death of Phil Bán,” Fr Duffy said.
“Phil was the first person that I remember going to a regatta in Arranmore island with when I was a very young child. It is one of my earliest memories in life.
“Phil was a gentleman who never forgot to visit the people of the island when they were in hospital in Letterkenny.
“A great boatman and business man. Phil was above all a great family man and a loyal friend to so many.
“Nobody could tell a story like Phil and he was a man who loved fun and took out the best in people.”
Wake and Funeral Details:
Reposing at his late residence (10 Beechwood Park) today Tuesday 25th February from 5pm to 9pm and on Wednesday 26th February from 12 noon to 9pm, concluding with Rosary each night at 9pm.
Funeral from there on Thursday 27th February, going to the Church of the Irish Martyrs, Ballyraine, Letterkenny (F92 PN81)) for 1pm Requiem Mass, which can be viewed online at https://www.youtube.com/@churchoftheirishmartyrs4657 followed by burial in Conwal Cemetery.
Family time please on the morning of the funeral.
Family flowers only please, donations in lieu if wished to the Donegal Hospice and the Alzheimer’ s Society c/o Paschal Blake, Funeral Director, Stoney Arch, New Line Road, Letterkenny.
