New York City bids farewell to a beloved son of Ireland, Malachy McCourt.

At the age of 92, Malachy McCourt, a towering figure in the Irish-American community and a man of manifold talents, passed away in Manhattan amid his battle with cancer and a heart condition, Deadline reported.

Born on September 20, 1931, in Brooklyn, New York, McCourt's journey was marked by the resilience and vivacity that defined his life and career.

In the early decades, his family returned to Limerick, Ireland, chasing promises that dissolved into poverty when their father abandoned them. This period of struggle would later form the backdrop to many of McCourt's writings and public narrations.

A Tale of Two Continents

Returning to New York at age 20, McCourt transformed his adversities into fuel for his multifaceted career. This was a man who not only survived but thrived, diving into acting, writing, and even pub ownership.

His literary contributions, especially memoirs like "A Monk Swimming" and "Singing My Him Song," offer a glimpse into his storied life, bridging the gap between Ireland's shores and the bustling streets of New York City.

His professional pursuits were as diverse as his interests. McCourt's acting career spanned several decades, appearing in prominent films and television series. Notably, his role as Kevin, the bartender in "Ryan's Hope," endured across 217 episodes, etching his presence into the fabric of American daytime television.

Beyond the screen, he ventured into politics, running for governor of New York as a Green Party candidate in 2006, showcasing his lifelong commitment to activism and public service.

An Irish Pub and a Politician's Passion

In the 1950s, Malachy McCourt took the helm of an Irish pub in Manhattan, pioneering a welcoming space for unaccompanied women and fostering a community for Irish immigrants and enthusiasts alike. This establishment became a cornerstone of New York's Irish community, reflecting McCourt's dedication to creating inclusive spaces.

His activism continued beyond the pub, particularly noted in his vocal criticism of the Iraq war and advocacy for LGBTQ+ inclusion in New York's St. Patrick's Day Parade, demonstrating his broader commitment to social justice.

McCourt's contributions were not confined to his public endeavors. Behind the scenes, he was a family man, survived by his wife, Diana, their children, and a lineage that includes nine grandchildren and one great-grandson. His personal life mirrored the richness and diversity of his public persona, grounded in love, resilience, and a profound connection to his Irish roots.

Legacy of an Irish-American Icon

His wife, Diana McCourt, shared the news of his passing, marking the end of an era for those who knew him personally and those touched by his work and advocacy.

His brother, Frank McCourt, a Pulitzer Prize-winning author with a storied history and struggles, predeceased him, leaving Malachy as one of the last connections to a poignant family saga that captured the imaginations of readers worldwide.

McCourt's death signifies more than the loss of a prolific individual; it marks the end of a chapter in New York City's Irish-American history.

His film and television roles, his literary contributions, and political activism leave behind a legacy that will continue to inspire and influence for generations.

A Farewell to a Stalwart Spirit

Malachy McCourt's life was a testament to the power of resilience, creativity, and advocacy. From the pubs of Manhattan to the sets of Hollywood and the political arenas of New York, he carved a path uniquely his own, guided by a spirited commitment to justice, inclusivity, and the enduring bonds of family and heritage.

As we remember Malachy McCourt, we reflect on a life lived to its fullest, a legacy built on the intersection of Irish and American cultures, and a voice that championed the marginalized. His passing leaves a void in the hearts of those who knew him and the many more who were moved by his words, performances, and actions.

In conclusion, the story of Malachy McCourt spans the globe from the streets of Brooklyn and Limerick to the stages and screens of America, encapsulating a journey of hardship, triumph, and unwavering advocacy.

He leaves behind a family that extends beyond blood to include all those touched by his compassion, wit, and indomitable spirit. His legacy, etched in the annals of Irish-American history, will continue to inspire future generations to face adversity with grace and to live with purposeful passion.