Pat Ingoldsby, the much-loved Irish poet and children’s television presenter, has passed away at the age of 82. He died peacefully in a nursing home in Clontarf, Dublin, surrounded by his family.
Ingoldsby first rose to fame in the 1980s, hosting popular RTÉ children’s TV shows such as Pat’s Hat, Pat’s Chat, and Pat’s Pals. He was also an accomplished playwright, having written for both stage and radio from Bats or Booze or Both in 1977 to The Full Shilling in 1986. In addition, he published short stories and wrote a column for the Evening Press.
Despite his media success, Ingoldsby stepped away from the public spotlight in the mid-1990s and became known for selling his poetry on the streets of Dublin, often on Westmoreland Street or College Green. His work resonated with the public as he continued to connect with the community through his words.
A fluent Irish speaker, Ingoldsby lived in Clontarf and remained active in Ireland’s arts scene, attending art exhibitions and introducing new musicians, including David Gray, the singer of This Year’s Love.
His family paid tribute to him on the Fanagans Kirwans funeral home’s page, describing him as a beloved companion to Vivienne and a dear friend to many, including his many pets. The family also remembered him warmly, listing his siblings and extended family, and concluding with a traditional Irish blessing, “Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam,” which means “May his soul rest in peace at God’s right hand.”
Tributes from fans and friends have poured in, with many sharing their memories of Ingoldsby’s kind and warm nature. Fergal Mullally, who knew Pat from the streets of Dublin, recalled how the poet’s conversation always brightened his day. Michael Flynn, another admirer, expressed his deepest sympathies, while Alice Leahy, a longtime friend, described Pat as one of Dublin’s great characters.
One fan, Mary Dunne, wrote: “Pat, you may be gone but you will never be forgotten. I adored your poems and am looking at your books as I type this. You brought colour to our streets and our lives.”
Born in Malahide, Dublin, in 1942, Pat Ingoldsby overcame childhood polio, which affected him throughout his life. His poetry and television work remain an enduring part of Irish cultural history.
A Celebration of Life will take place at 2:30 p.m. on Thursday, March 6, at the Victorian Chapel of Mount Jerome Crematorium in Dublin. The family has requested family flowers only and asked that donations be made to the Devon-based Donkey Sanctuary, a cause close to Ingoldsby’s heart.
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