Charlie Bird funeral details announced amid glowing tributes to former RTE journalist

Charlie Bird's funeral details have been announced after the former RTE journalist died on Monday after a battle with Motor Neurone Disease.

Charlie's RIP.ie notice says he "died peacefully in the wonderful care of Wicklow Hospice with his family at his side."

It adds that he will be "sadly missed by his beloved wife, Claire, loving daughters Orla and Neasa, little wingman Tiger, his sons-in-law Rob and Aidan, adored grandchildren Charlie, Hugo, Abigail, Harriet and Edward, his extended family, former colleagues and a wide circle of friends both at home and abroad. Remembering also Orla and Neasa’s late mother Mary."

The family have announced that "a service to celebrate Charlie's life will be held on Thursday (March 14th) at 12 noon in the Round Room, Mansion House, Dublin 2. No flowers please. Donations, if desired, to Wicklow Hospice."

Tributes have been coming in from around the world since news of Charlie's death broke on Monday.

RTÉ journalist, Samantha Libreri, remembered her mentor and his words of wisdom.

“My mentor and my friend. I learned so much from Charlie Bird and was so lucky to have his support and friendship. I’ve never met anyone with his passion, energy and excitement for a story. I’ll miss him so much but carry his words and wisdom with me every day that I do my job,” she said, sharing a

Tánaiste, Micheál Martin paid tribute to Charlie and the memorable stories he covered.

“Deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Charlie Bird, who inspired so many with the courage, generosity of spirit and dignity he faced his battle with Motor neurone disease,” Mr Martin started. “As a journalist and broadcaster for RTE, Charlie had few peers. He memorably covered national and international events such as the Peace Process, the Sept 11 attacks, the Gulf War, and the National Irish Bank scandal.”

“Personable and engaging, Charlie had the public interest at heart, representing public service broadcasting at its very best. Recently, Charlie captured the imagination, nurturing a true spirit of solidarity through his ‘Climb With Charlie’. His message of generosity, friendship, and simply looking out for each other will long be remembered. My condolences to Claire, his children, family, and friends,” added Mr Martin.

Sharing a picture from the day the pair reached the summit of Croagh Patrick, Tubridy said: "A joyful memory of Charlie Bird who has sadly died. I will never forget his fortitude, forbearance and fearlessness in the face of a cruel illness. He raised awareness and funding for charities that needed it most.

"Condolences to his beloved Claire and his daughters, Orla and Nessa. Rest in peace Charlie and thank you for bringing us to the top of the mountain where perspective reigns supreme."

Niall Breslin (Bressie) wrote in tribute: “It has been a hard week for the hearts and minds of this country. We have lost two souls that have highlighted to us all, that we need to value the humanity in ourselves and those around us. We need to share that with each other. Charlie was a flicker of light in dark times, and the best way we can pay tribute to him and his family, is to honour his wishes for a more kind and fair Ireland.”

RTE Correspondent, Ingrid Miley, said: “So sorry to hear of the passing of my former colleague Charlie Bird. To the end, in his darkest days, he worked to help others and raise awareness of a terrible disease. My sincere condolences to his beloved Claire and Tiger, and all his family and friends. May he rest in peace.”

Journalist Gareth O’Callaghan also paid tribute: “So sad to hear the news that Charlie Bird passed away this morning, after a long battle with motor neurone disease. He was the greatest reporter of my generation.”