Emotions run high as thousands gather to bid farewell to Sinéad O’Connor

In a testament to the profound impact Sinéad O’Connor had on the world of music and beyond, thousands of mourners gathered in Ireland on Tuesday, August 8 to bid farewell during a moving ceremony.

O’Connor sadly passed away on Wednesday, July 26 at the age of 56.

At the time, O’Connor’s family released a statement announcing the passing of the Nothing Compares 2 U hitmaker.

“It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved Sinéad,” the statement read.

“Her family and friends are devastated and have requested privacy at this very difficult time.”

The sudden loss of the beloved Irish singer-songwriter sent shockwaves through the music community and left her fans reeling with grief. This grief was on full display among the thousands-strong crowd who had gathered to bid farewell.

Following a private funeral held for loved ones and friends which included the likes of Bono and Bob Geldof, the iconic singer was farewelled by thousands of fans who had lined the streets of Bray to pay their respects during the funeral procession.

Heartbroken fans tossed flowers on the hearse as it made its way through the streets, led by a VW camper van that played some of her well-known songs, it wasn’t long before those gathered joined to sing her iconic hit Nothing Compares 2 U.

Nobody ever has to ask if Sinead O’Connor was loved. The air is filled with sadness and heartfelt love in equal measures. #SineadOConnor pic.twitter.com/wuAy2VuaSc

— Emma McMenamy (@emmamcm) August 8, 2023