Mayo mourns death of music maestro
The late George Lee leaves a lasting legacy after years of dedication to music in Mayo.
The death has occurred of one of the leading lights in Mayo’s musical fraternity.
George Lee, Ballinamore, Kiltimagh, and a native of Stoneyford, Co Kilkenny, has passed away at the age of 87. He died peacefully in the Galway Clinic surrounded by his loving family.
Mr Lee was musical director of Mayo Concert Orchestra for 21 years before his retirement in 2016. He was also a former musical director of Castlebar Concert Band and served as organist and director with Kiltimagh Musical Choir as well as bringing his talents to other choirs and musical societies in the county.
Mr Lee was a member of the teaching staff at Swinford secondary school for many years. Declan Hynes, president of Music West, said Mr Lee was integral to Mayo Concert Orchestra since its inception. “The success of the orchestra stands as a tribute to his great input. His passing marks the end of an era for our organisation.”
Predeceased by his brother Michael and sister Phil, he is deeply regretted by his wife Mary, daughters Martha, Deirdre, Vivienne and Barbara, siblings Teresa and Tom, brother-in-law John, son-in-law Stephen, grandchildren Darragh, Saoirse and Senan, partners Joe and Adrian, nieces, nephews, grand-nieces grand-nephews, extended family, friends and neighbours
