The academic, writer and archivist for The Irish News died peacefully at home in Belfast after a short illness. He is survived by his wife Alice, daughter Mary-Alice, son-in-law Stuart and granddaughter Nicole. Dr Phoenix has had a long association with The Irish News, providing unrivaled insight and forensic analysis of key events in our history. He will be best remembered by readers for his irreverent On This Day column, which was required reading for those interested in our troubled past and how history informs the present and future. Despite his illness, he continued to contribute to his daily column. The latest of On This Day appeared today. Irish News Editor Noel Doran said: “I am deeply saddened by the passing of Éamon Phoenix, a respected colleague and valued friend throughout my time with The Irish News. Éamon was one of Ireland’s pre-eminent historians and possessed unparalleled knowledge of our society’s past, present and future. ”He was also the chronicler of all aspects of The Irish News from 1891 and indeed its predecessor of the Belfast Morning News from 1855. ”His On This Day column has been beloved by our readers over the decades, and his recent work on the critical periods of 1922 and 1972 epitomized the importance of his role. “It was always a privilege to welcome Éamon on his regular visits to our office, often donning his blue gloves to examine the ancient bound records that formed the basis of his research. As well as being a talented writer, Éamon was an excellent orator with the ability to bring any subject to life through his anecdotes and observations. “He will be greatly missed by all associated with The Irish News and my sincere condolences, as well as those of all our readers, go to Alice’s widow, his daughter Mary-Alice and the family circle.” South Belfast MP Claire Hanna said: “It was with deep sadness that I learned of the death of the eminent historian Dr Éamon Phoenix at the young age of 69 after a short illness. Our deepest condolences to his beloved wife Alice and daughter. “Éamon taught for years at Stranmillis University College and was renowned for his charming and musical voice. No one knew more about the history of Ireland, and especially the North and the tragic historical circumstances that shaped the attitude of all of us to this small piece of land. He was recognized by all as impartial and just and could travel anywhere without trouble because of his recognition as a man of integrity and honesty. “He was in high demand for centenary events in recent years and had his own views which he expressed quietly when asked and which included the futility of the use of force and the missed opportunities on all sides to show generosity, especially in the early 20th century . “Éamon left a huge spoken word archive with the BBC, his ‘On This Day’ column in the Irish News, which covers events reported 50 to 100 years ago, will be a key resource for historians for years to come . I can personally testify that John Hume was an ardent admirer of his work, particularly his great work ‘Ulster Nationalism’. “It’s true to say we’ll never see a witty comic star again. Among the Saints of Ireland and at the right hand of God may his soul rest in peace.” Sinn Féin Stormont leader Michelle O’Neill said she was deeply saddened to hear of Dr Phoenix’s death. “Eamonn has been a gifted communicator who has published and contributed many valuable and important pieces of historical writing, reflection and analysis over nearly four decades,” he said. “His passion and enthusiasm for Irish history and politics brought it to life raising public awareness and interest across society for today’s generation. “His unique contribution to peace building on this island was clear to all, and particularly through his regular columns in local newspapers and radio and television appearances, and his significant involvement in the centenary. “His valuable writings and knowledge of our past leave a strong legacy for future generations. “My thoughts are with Eamon’s family, his friends and colleagues in academia and at the Irish News at this sad and difficult time.” DUP leader Sir Jeffrey Donaldson said he was incredibly saddened by the news. “Eamon takes to the grave an insight into the history of these islands that few will ever rival,” he said. “Our deepest condolences to his wife, daughter and extended family.” Devastated to hear of Éamon’s untimely death, he was a wonderful and reliable Irish historian and a consummate communicator. He takes with him an encyclopedic knowledge of Irish history and politics and leaves a huge void — Máire Nic Lochlainn (@LochlainnNic) November 14, 2022 Éamon always created a sense of energy and excitement whenever you were lucky enough to hear him speak. He would enliven speeches on historical events with his wonderful storytelling style. RIP. — John Brolly (@JohnBrolyJB) November 14, 2022 Very sad news. Also a former teacher of mine. Eamon was absolutely passionate about enriching the lives of his students by bringing history to life and making it relevant to us all, he also instilled life skills we all needed such as discussion, analysis and communication. Big loss. — Kevin Scott (@Starbase37) November 14, 2022 This is terrifying news. I spoke at an event with Eamon once and like the best historians he came to the podium with a pile of books. Sorry to hear this “Historian Éamon Phoenix dies aged 69 via @irish_news — Professor Joanne Murphy (@changeresearch) November 14, 2022
