Sadness at death of well-known Ballina singer

COMMUNITY NOTES: BALLINA - WESTERN PEOPLE (MARCH 4 EDITION)

Dermot Hopkins, who died suddenly at his residence in Knockleagha, Ballina, was a highly regarded singer.

Dermot, a painter by trade, was best known for his work with several local bands from the 1960s onwards, including The Bobby McCafferty group, and as a wedding performer.

Dermot will be sadly missed by his sister Geraldine, brother-in-law Michael Grehan, nieces, nephews, relatives, neighbours, friends and colleagues from the music business.

Dermot was the last of the native male residents of Knockleagha Cottages, which are located close to Ballina Railway Station.

He was predeceased by his parents Jack and Annie Hopkins, his brothers Des, Ivan, Stephen and Ted, and his sisters Mary, Nano and Dorothy.

Dermot reposed at McGowan’s Funeral Home, Ballina on Monday of last week. Requiem Mass was celebrated in St Muredach’s Cathedral, Ballina on Tuesday, followed by committal prayers in McGowan’s Funeral Home and a private cremation afterwards.