Showbiz icons turn out to pay respects to music legend Paddy Cole as ‘King Of The Swingers’ laid to rest after death

MOURNERS turned out to pay their respects as legendary musician Paddy Cole was laid to rest.

The 85-year-old entertainer died in Dublin’s St Vincent’s Private Hospital after a brave battle with ill health.

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Mourners turned out for Paddy Cole’s funeralCredit: collinsphotos.com

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Cole died in Dublin’s St Vincent’s Private Hospital last weekCredit: Garrett White – Commissioned by The Sun Dublin

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Panto icon Adele King attended the funeralCredit: collinsphotos.com

Cole was diagnosed with lung cancer in 2022 and had received hospice care before his death.

Paddy, who lived in Ballsbridge in Dublin, was affectionately known as “The King of The Swingers” throughout his stellar career.

Mass for Cole was celebrated at St Mary’s Church, Castleblayney, where the throngs of well-wishers included panto icon Adele King.

Michael D Higgins and Taoiseach Micheal Martin were also represented by their Aid De Camps.

The funeral mass, which lasted almost two hours, was celebrated by Fr Brian D’Arcy.

After the service he was cremated in a private family ceremony.

The saxophone player and singer is survived by his wife Helen, children Pearse, Pat and Karen and many grandchildren and family friends.

Announcing his death last Wednesday, his son Pat said on behalf of the family: “The music world mourns the loss of the legendary Paddy Cole, a beloved entertainer who brought joy to thousands with his vibrant personality and infectious music.

“From the Capitol Showband to his own Superstars, Paddy Cole’s saxophone, clarinet, and vocals filled dance halls and concert stages with his signature blend of jazz, Dixieland, and showband sounds.

“His music transcended generations, creating memories that will forever be cherished.

‘OUTPOURING OF LOVE’

“On behalf of his family, we express our deepest gratitude for the outpouring of love and support during this difficult time. Paddy’s legacy will live on through the music he created and the joy he shared with the world.”

Veteran musician Cole celebrated his 85th birthday on December 17 last year.

In his final interview last month, he said that in recent years he never expected to reach such a milestone age.

He indicated that his health was “up and down” but he was trying to stay positive and keep “the best side out.”

In one of his final public statements, Paddy said: “I’ve seen the world through music, I’ve reared a family doing something I love, and it doesn’t get much better than that in life.”

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Ronan Collins said his final farewell to Paddy at his funeral mass todayCredit: collinsphotos.com