A PHOTOGRAPH of Brendan Grace has been unveiled at Shannon Airport in a touching memorial to the late entertainer.
The legendary Irish comedian entertained audiences at home and abroad for decades before his sad passing in July of this year, and now his image has been immortalised on Shannon Airport’s Wall of Fame.
The photograph, which joins that of other celebrities including every US President since Irish-American John F Kennedy, was unveiled by his wife Eileen, daughter Amanda, grandson James and son-in-law Frank.
The black-and-white photo shows the comedian in his younger days giving a knowing wink to the camera; an apt memorial to the Dublin man whose stand-up and acting brought joy to thousands of people.
Now thousands more will see his image as they pass through the departures lounge of the County Clare airport.
Grace was apparently a fan of the airport, and had been hoping to unveil the photograph himself this year before his failing health put the plans on hold.
*WATCH* 📹The moment Brendan Grace’s image was unveiled by his family here in #ShannonAirport today. Honored to welcome Brendan’s grandson James, wife Eileen, daughter Amanda & son-in-law Frank. pic.twitter.com/vR2JzrHf8d
— Shannon Airport (@ShannonAirport) August 27, 2019
His wife Eileen spoke of what the unveiling would have meant to the late comedian.
“Brendan loved Shannon Airport. He travelled through here for five decades over and back to the US, in particular, but also the UK and Europe.
He just loved the convenience and warmth of it. It was, in fact, one of the reasons that got us to come and live in [nearby] Killaloe,”
Mr Grace’s addition to the Wall of Fame is the latest in a long line of tributes to the late comedian, who famously starred as Father Fintan Stack in a fan-favourite episode of Father Ted.
On the day of his funeral, a hand-painted mural appeared in Dublin depicting the man in a green jacket, decorated with the words “Thank you”.
The CEO of Shannon Group Mary Considine said of the photograph:
“Brendan Grace was a frequent flyer through Shannon and our staff got to know him as a true friend.
This photograph will be treasured and hopefully bring a smile to all who see it, remembering with fondness the laughter and joy Brendan brought to so many over the years.”
So if you’re passing through Shannon Airport on future travels, be sure to look out for the legendary funnyman.
