SAD LOSS 

Ex-RTE broadcaster and award-winning children’s author dies as tributes pour in for ‘renowned writer’

‘The man behind many award-winning children’s books’

EX-RTE broadcaster John Quinn has sadly passed away and heartfelt tributes are pouring in for the respected writer.

The award-winning author had a distinguished career with RTE Radio before retiring in 2002 after 27 years with the national broadcaster.

Alongside his broadcasting work, John was a much-loved author, who wrote five children’s novels, one adult novel and a memoir, Sea of Love, Sea of Loss.

His popular children’s novel The Summer of Lily and Esme won the Bisto Book of the Year Award in 1992.

John was also responsible for several acclaimed RTE radio documentaries including The Curious Mind and Three Men Standing At The Met, as well as the educational series The Curious Mind.

Tributes were led online by Greystones Guide, who paid tribute to John’s outstanding career and achievements while paying condolences to his family.

They wrote: “Renowned broadcaster and writer – and former New Road resident – John Quinn has sadly passed.

“The man behind many award-winning children’s books such as The Summer Of Lily and Esme plus Sea Of Love, Sea Of Loss, John was also responsible for such acclaimed RTÉ radio documentaries as The Curious Mind and Three Men Standing At The Met, as well as the educational series The Curious Mind.

“Condolences to Dee, Lisa and Declan, and all of John’s extended family and friends.”

Many more tributes quickly followed in the comments.

Catriona commented: “Dee, I’m so sorry to hear your families sad news on the passing of your father. My sympathies to you all.”

Elaine wrote: “Deepest condolences to all the family. May he rest in peace.”

Suzanne said: “Dee, Lisa and Declan, I am so sorry to hear about your Dad’s passing. May he Rest in Peace.”

Another added: “Lisa so sorry for your loss, thinking of you and all your family at this time.”

This comes just days after RTE Fair City star David Heap sadly passed away aged 76.

TEARY TRIBUTES

David, who starred as Donal Maher in the hit soap for over a decade, was diagnosed with a rare neurodegenerative disease called called Corticobasal Syndrome in 2024.

The actor’s beloved wife Olwen Fouéré confirmed the heartbreaking news that her husband had died in her arms over on Instagram.

She shared a snap of the star and wrote: “Farewell to my beloved David Richard Heap who died in my arms at home today December 30th 2025.

“Born in Cinderford, Gloucestershire on 21st May 1949, he moved to Ireland after playing the original Captain Lancey in the world premiere of Translations by Brian Friel in 1980, the first ever production from Field Day theatre company created by Stephen Rea and Brian Friel.

“He was a special man and a beautiful soul. Go well, my love xxx.”