The sad news of the passing of Bill O'Herlihy has touched everyone today, in particular those who worked with him over the years.
Since the news broke earlier, tributes have been steadily flowing in as colleagues, friends and fans all try to sum up what O'Herlihy meant to them, whether they were lucky enough to sit with him in the studio, or if they welcomed him into their homes through their television screens.
Shocking news. Sad day. RIP Bill O'Herlihy. pic.twitter.com/0h56SwSKWJ
— George Hamilton (@HamiltonRTE) May 25, 2015
One word is coming up all the time - ‘Gentleman’ - Bill O’Herlihy RIP pic.twitter.com/jcunfCvfs5
— Ian Dempsey (@IanDempsey) May 25, 2015
Terrible news that Bill O'Herlihy has passed away. Outstanding presenter and even better man. Honoured to have worked with him. RIP Bill.
— Didi Hamann (@DietmarHamann) May 25, 2015
Shocked to hear about Bill O'Herlihy You couldn't have met a nicer man. #RIPBill
— Jim Beglin (@jimbeglin) May 25, 2015
We are all in shock here at the sad news of our colleague and friend Bill O'Herlihy. Our thoughts are with Hilary and the family. #RIPBill
— Tony O'Donoghue (@Corktod) May 25, 2015
Very sad to hear of the passing of Bill O'Herlihy, I know he liked this picture so posting again as tribute to him. pic.twitter.com/uG2inSScfR
— Niall O'Loughlin (@nialloloughlin) May 25, 2015
Shocking news... RIP Bill O'Herlihy.. #Legend Okey Doke. We'll leave it there so...
— Sheamus (@WWESheamus) May 25, 2015
So sad to hear the news about Bill O'Herlihy. One of life's true gentlemen.
— Ross O'Carroll-Kelly (@RossOCK) May 25, 2015
So sad to hear of Bill O'Herlihy's passing, our thoughts to his family, friends & colleagues. A legend of sport #RIP pic.twitter.com/RhboucvyVj
— Munster Rugby (@Munsterrugby) May 25, 2015
Deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Bill O'Herlihy. A true legend of broadcasting and Irish sport. #RIPBill pic.twitter.com/sg7LGGMM49
— Leinster Rugby (@leinsterrugby) May 25, 2015
Many fans also spoke about his impact, and how his constant presence at the helm of the panel for major events made him synonymous with sport in this country.
I felt i actually knew Bill O Herlihy! God rest him. Passing of a legend. #legend @RTE2 #MemoriesIWontForget pic.twitter.com/gqZAIAqnZk
— Fergal Favier (@fergalfavier) May 25, 2015
RIP Bill O'Herlihy.A skilled broadcaster,referee to Messrs Giles & Dunphy & genuine fan.Thanks for memories Bill. pic.twitter.com/j4c7t2w8kO
— Irish Football Pics (@irish_pics) May 25, 2015
Just heard of the sad passing of Bill O'Herlihy. This is how I'll always remember him #Italia90 RIP pic.twitter.com/nGmo4RuBwB
— Seamie Brennan (@seamiesanchez) May 25, 2015
Speaking on Newstalk, long-time colleague John Giles said that the news came as a "great shock" to him, and that his thoughts were with Bill's family at this tough time.
RTÉ Radio One also put together a touching tribute to their colleague, and an emotional Eamon Dunphy spoke to the News at One about the passing of one of his best friends.
The guys at Second Captains, who spoke with O'Herlihy several times and grew up watching him, put together a tribute also, noting how his career and achievements will probably never be surpassed.
Heather Humphreys TD, Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht said "the World Cup would not have been the same without Bill. His good humour, his wonderful manner and his excellent broadcasting skills were unparalleled".
The sheer volume of tributes, as well as the universal acknowledgement that he was a kind and friendly figure speak volumes about the man and his legacy as one of the most well-respected and beloved broadcasters the country has ever known.