Waterford community mourns warm, creative and talented musician
Described as having the 'rasping voice of an angel' by Jerry Fish, Cat Dowling cut her teeth as the lead singer of Babelfish, later to become Alphastates and as a solo singer/songwriter recently collaborated with Waterford artist Peter Vogelaar.
There was great sadness in Ferrybank and beyond following the passing of Catherine "Cat" Dowling, the acclaimed singer-songwriter whose unique voice and remarkable musical talent touched audiences across Ireland and internationally.
Cat passed away peacefully on Friday, August 7, in the care of St Francis Hospice, Blanchardstown, following a courageous illness.
She was 54.
Despite achieving international acclaim as a singer-songwriter, Cat remained a much-loved member of the Ferrybank community, where she lived on Newrath Road.
Daughter of the late Fine Gael TD Dick Dowling, she was remembered for her warmth, creativity and kindness.
Tributes described her as a true original whose talent and generosity left a lasting mark on Irish music.
Above all else, Cat was a devoted mother to Rachel, Ódhran and Juliette, and was deeply cherished by her mother Máirín, sister Anne Marie, brothers Padraic, Donal, Richard and John, and her wider family circle.
Her funeral, which took place on Wednesday, August 11, brought her back to the community she called home, with repose at Power's Funeral Home, Ferrybank, followed by Requiem Mass in the Sacred Heart Church and burial in nearby Glenmore Cemetery.
May she rest in peace.
