Tributes have been pouring in following the death of Co Tyrone music legend Barry Lynch.
The Pomeroy native was well-known across the Mid Ulster area as a talented musician and teacher.
The retired Drumcree College, Portadown teacher passed away after a tragic accident earlier this month had left him in hospital.
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Barry had most recently been involved with Armagh group the Armagh Rhymers, and had recently completed a six week musical tour of Germany.
He had set up a cross community choir People in Harmony, which travelled extensively and performed for President Clinton at the White House, and the Irish Embassy in Washington DC in 1998.
Local guitar tutor Sárán Ó Machail was invited into his first music session by Barry, and told Belfast Live he had inspired a whole generation of musicians in the area with his passion for music.
“I’ve met many people in my time but I’ve never met a gentleman like Barry Lynch,” Sárán said.
“He played a big part in the local music scene, especially in ‘midtown Moy’ as he would have called it himself.
“Over the years I had the pleasure of playing with him on many occasions in the Moy, and he would have played with anybody and everybody.
“The most important thing about Barry was just how kind he was, he always put other people first.
“Musically he would have encouraged us young musicians to get involved with everything and anything.
“Nobody can get over what has happened. He has left a big gap but also a brilliant legacy that will live on.
Barry organised regular music sessions at Tomney’s Bar in the Moy, and the pub’s owner Barry John MacNeice described Barry as a ‘true gentleman’.
“A true gentleman and legend that will be sorely missed within the local music scene and further beyond,” Barry said.
“His legacy will live on through all those he inspired to follow his musical journey and those who had the pleasure to meet him.
“Our condolences to the Lynch family from all at the Tomney household.”
Coalisland based drama group the Craic Theatre said Barry’s legacy in the area will live on.
“Very sad news has reached us that a true man of arts, Barry Lynch has died,” the theatre posted on social media.
“The Craic Theatre would wish to pass on our condolences to Barry’s family and friends. His artistic legacy will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.”
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