Acclaimed Irish folk artist Cara Dillon pays emotional tribute to late mother

Acclaimed Irish folk artist Cara Dillon has paid an emotional tribute to her mother who sadly passed away today (Thursday).

Teresa Dillion died peacefully at her Dungiven home, surrounded by her loving family.

Mrs Dillion, who was predeceased by her husband Frank, is the mother of Cara Dillon, who has risen to become one of the finest exponents of traditional Irish song anywhere in the world.

Earlier this evening, the ‘Hill of Thieves’ singer posted an emotional tribute to her late mother on social media.

The post features a picture of Cara and her beloved mother standing on top of Benbradagh mountain in her hometown of Dungiven.

Cara’s song ‘Apron Strings’ also accompanies the tribute, which reads: “Our dear mother Teresa has passed away today.

“Although we are heartbroken, we have had two of the most precious days by her side, sharing stories and laughter, surrounded by the most protective love she has always shown us.”

Cara added: “Travel safely now mammy.”

A death notice describes Teresa as the ‘devoted mother of Anne (Fintan), Mary (PJ), Emma (Niall), Joan (Eoin), Francis (Angela) and Cara (Sam)’.

She is also the ‘dear sister of Susan Harkin, Margaret Cassidy, George and the late James, Jerry, Bridie White and May O’Neill’.

Mrs Dillon’s funeral will take place at 1pm on Saturday afternoon in St Patrick’s Church, Dungiven.

Meanwhile, dozens of online tributes have been paid to Mrs Dillon this evening.

One man expressed his condolences saying: “She was a lovely woman.  ‘Apron Strings’ was the tune I thought about when I heard this sad news earlier.  The way you (Cara) speak about your parents, about where they came from and their influence on your life and career is something else.  We got to know them when you spoke about them from the stage or through your songs and spoken word.  It’s an amazing legacy they have left behind.”

Another tribute read: “Always loved hearing the stories of her at your concerts.  Thoughts with you all.  You will keep her alive in your music.”

County Derry has shaped Cara Dillon’s musical journey over the years.

From winning the All Ireland Singing Trophy at only 14 to performing sell out gigs throughout the world, Cara has produced eight solo studio albums over the years and has won countless awards.

Earlier this summer, Cara and her long-time collaborator and husband Sam Lakeman performed a number of intimate duo shows as part of her ‘Coming Home’ Tour.