Funeral Arrangements Announced for Irish Singer Cat Dowling

Funeral arrangements have been announced for Irish singer-songwriter Catherine "Cat" Dowling, who died on Friday, August 7, 2026, at the age of 54. The celebrated vocalist, known for her work with the bands Babelfish and Alphastates and for a acclaimed solo career, passed away following a battle with breast cancer.

Dowling, who was born in Ferrybank, County Kilkenny, and had been living in Dublin, is survived by her three children, Rachel, Ódhran, and Juliette. Her death has prompted an outpouring of tributes from across the Irish music community, with fellow artists and venues remembering her as a unique talent and a kind, generous person.

Her funeral will take place in her native Kilkenny. Dowling will lie in repose at Powers Funeral Home in Ferrybank on Tuesday, August 11, from 2:30 p.m., followed by removal at 6 p.m. to The Sacred Heart Church, Ferrybank. Her Requiem Mass will be held there on Wednesday, August 12, at 1 p.m., after which she will be buried in Glenmore Cemetery alongside her father, Richard Dowling, a former politician.

Dowling first gained recognition in 2001 as the frontwoman of Dublin band Babelfish, which she formed with guitarist Gerry Horan, bassist...