Michael Flatley has paid an emotional tribute to his wife, Niamh O’Brien, at her funeral Mass in Dublin, describing her as the “love of his life” and saying he looked forward to their “next dance in heaven together”.
The celebrated Irish dancer delivered the eulogy at the Church of St Thérèse in Mount Merrion on Saturday, where family and friends gathered to remember O’Brien, who died aged 52 after a long illness.
Michael Flatley remembers Niamh O’Brien at funeral Mass
Flatley struggled to contain his emotions as he spoke about the loss of his wife. He told the congregation that the pain of her illness and death was unlike anything he had experienced, despite the physical injuries and hardship he endured during his career as a boxer and dancer.
He described O’Brien as his “dream girl”, his calming influence and the person who made his life better after their marriage. The couple had danced together for years before beginning a romantic relationship in 2006. They married two decades ago this month.
“She was the lady of the dance, she was the mother of my son. She was the most beautiful girl in the world,” Flatley said during the tribute.
At the end of his eulogy, Flatley played a tribute to his wife on the flute, creating one of the most poignant moments of the funeral service.
Key facts
- Niamh O’Brien was remembered at a funeral Mass in Mount Merrion, Dublin.
- She was 52 and originally from Kilbride, Co Meath.
- O’Brien had danced with Michael Flatley for many years.
- The couple married 20 years ago this month and had one son.
- A private family burial followed the Mass.
Niamh O’Brien’s long illness
O’Brien had been diagnosed with scleroderma, an autoimmune disease, 12 years before her death. Flatley said she had initially been given two years to live, but continued to fight the condition throughout her life.
He recalled that the final two years had been particularly difficult. The last three weeks were described as especially painful because she struggled to breathe.
Flatley said he encouraged his wife to focus on faith during her illness, telling her not to concentrate on the storm but on “the hand of the Lord”. His tribute highlighted both the seriousness of her condition and the determination with which she faced it.
Family remembers a devoted mother and wife
The couple’s son, Michael St James, also spoke during the service. He remembered the deep bond between his parents and said they had fought hard to support one another until the end.
He described his mother as a wonderful person and an exceptional parent who consistently put others first. He said her influence would remain with him through the person she had helped him become.
Flatley thanked O’Brien’s parents, Monica and Tommy, along with her sisters Derval and Aoibheann, for welcoming him into their family and for their devotion to Niamh throughout her illness.
The chief mourners included her immediate family, her niece Dempsey Rose and nephews Dillon, Lochlann and Lennon. Comdt Joe Lennon represented Taoiseach Micheál Martin at the funeral.
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Private burial follows Dublin service
The funeral Mass was followed by a private family burial. No further details about the burial were released.
O’Brien was originally from Kilbride in Co Meath and had shared a professional connection with Flatley before their relationship began. Their years working together as dancers formed the foundation of a partnership that later became a marriage and family life.
Flatley recalled one early moment in their shared career when O’Brien encouraged him before a performance at Madison Square Garden in New York. Her support, he said, came before they became romantically involved but reflected the understanding she brought to his life.
Frequently asked questions
Who was Niamh O’Brien?
Niamh O’Brien was an Irish dancer and the wife of Michael Flatley. She was originally from Kilbride, Co Meath, and had danced with Flatley for many years.
Where was Niamh O’Brien’s funeral held?
Her funeral Mass took place at the Church of St Thérèse in Mount Merrion, Dublin.
What illness did Niamh O’Brien have?
O’Brien had scleroderma, an autoimmune disease. She had lived with the condition for 12 years before her death.
Who attended the funeral?
Family and friends attended, including Michael Flatley, their son Michael St James and O’Brien’s parents and sisters. Comdt Joe Lennon represented Taoiseach Micheál Martin.
Conclusion
Michael Flatley’s tribute offered a deeply personal account of his marriage to Niamh O’Brien, honouring her courage, family devotion and influence on his life. The Dublin funeral Mass brought together those closest to her as her family remembered an Irish dancer, mother and wife whose presence shaped the lives around her. This remains one of the day’s most significant Breaking News Ireland stories.
