Tributes have been pouring in for the 98FM radio sports presenter Johnny Lyons, who has died at his home in Dublin.
The cause of death is not yet known, but in a statement 98FM said he died suddenly and peacefully.
He had been off work with a broken ankle and was due to return to the office next week.
Johnny Lyons joined 98FM in 1996 and was their Sports Editor.
He also hosted the popular Sunday sports show Now That's What I Call Sport.
98FM broke the news on their website: "The Directors, management and all the staff at 98FM are heartbroken at the death of our dear colleague and great friend Johnny Lyons.
"Johnny died suddenly and peacefully at his home in Dublin. Johnny has been the backbone of our sports team for over 20 years. His distinctive voice and his passion for soccer defined Johnny for so many of his listeners.
"He was a talented presenter with a deep knowledge and love of sport and his Sunday morning programme ‘Now that’s What I Call Sport’ was a weekly date for so many Dubliners."
98FM is heartbroken to announce the death of our dear friend and colleague, Johnny Lyons: http://t.co/FtCwVZVPZ4 pic.twitter.com/p8pVrA0QUL
— 98FM (@98FM) August 19, 2015
Keith McCormack, Chief Executive of 98FM paid tribute to Johnny Lyons, saying, "The entire station is devastated with the sudden passing of a beloved colleague. Johnny, with his larger than life personality, was loved by all listeners and colleagues alike.
"He was a huge part of the 98FM family and will be dearly missed, we would like to extend our deepest sympathies to his family at this time. May he rest in peace."
The radio station is paying tribute to their colleague and friend on air.
So sad to hear about the death of Johnny Lyons. I've known him since his 'Metal' days in Hot Press and enjoyed him on many a football trip.
— Tony O'Donoghue (@Corktod) August 19, 2015
Saddened to hear this news, a top top broadcaster, deepest sympathy to family, friends and colleagues https://t.co/Bk7aUv6g1F
— Michael Corcoran (@MichaelC_RTE) August 19, 2015
Very saddened to hear of passing of the great Johnny Lyons from 98 FM. Passionate Sports man & I certainly loved his company., Rest in peace
— Marty Morrissey (@MartyM_RTE) August 19, 2015
In a Facebook post Republic of Ireland and LA Galaxy player Robbie Keane said: "Very sad to hear of the sudden passing of a true friend of Irish Sport Johnny Lyons. RIP."
The FAI also paid tribute, saying the Dubliner was well known at many Ireland internationals both home and abroad over the years and there are plans to pay tribute to him at next month's match against Georgia.
CEO John Delaney said: "Johnny Lyons was a great football man who really understood the game. I enjoyed being interviewed by him because he was so passionate and I want to extend our sympathy to his family and friends."
People have also paid tribute to Johnny Lyons on Twitter:
He was one of those people who changed the energy of a room by simply stepping into it. I always felt about 50% happier for having met him.
— Ross O'Carroll-Kelly (@RossOCK) August 19, 2015
I'm so sorry to hear that Johnny Lyons of @98FM has passed away. Amazing voice. And so well liked in the industry. RIP #imjohnnylyons
— Gráinne Seoige (@grainne_seoige) August 20, 2015
Terrible to hear about Johnny Lyons, Radio is at a loss without his energy! #RIP — Bernard Brogan (@bernardbrogan) August 20, 2015
Just heard the news that Johnny Lyons has passed away,devastated what a good pal over the years will be sorely missed RIP #fartooyoung
— Paul McGrath (@Paulmcgrath5) August 19, 2015
Truly sad to hear the news about Johnny Lyons. Thoughts are with his friends and family RIP
— Darren McDonald (@DarrenMc1901) August 19, 2015
Very sad to hear the passing of super Leeds fan Johnny Lyons . RIP
— DUBLIN LUMC (@DublinLumc) August 19, 2015
I'm shocked and saddened my old sports and music sparring mate #johnnylyons is dead my condolences to all in @98FM Rup
— john kenny (@JohnKennyMedia) August 19, 2015
Just heard about Johnny Lyons. What a huge shock. Was only talking to him at the FAI Junior Cup Final lately. RIP
— Will Downing (@WillDowningComm) August 19, 2015
Shocking news re Johnny Lyons. He brought such life, character and nuggets of wisdom to the #98fm sports news.
— Tony Kent (@2NilDown) August 19, 2015
Cant believe "Im Johnny Lyons...." is dead, voice of #98fm #sport #radio #rip
— Cross (@racross) August 19, 2015
Always so nice to me 💔 helpful, talented, enthusiastic you will be sadly missed #JohnnyLyons pic.twitter.com/hEdTWfsiMk
— ✨Claire Craig✨ (@MissClaireCraig) August 19, 2015
Stunned to hear of the sudden death of Johnny Lyons. The voice of sport on @98fm Condolences to his family, friends and work colleagues
— Liam Whelan (@liam11) August 19, 2015
Terrible to hear news of untimely death of Johnny Lyons @98FM. An absolute legend and a huge loss. You'd never forget his sign off.
— Ian Guider (@ianguider) August 19, 2015
Desperately sad news about Johnny Lyons. Anybody who met him never again had to check dictionary definition of larger than life. RIP.
— Roy Curtis (@RoyCurtis68) August 19, 2015
Just heard the news about Johnny Lyons. He was a pleasure to deal with and I never seen him unenthusiastic about his work. RIP.
— Daniel Kelly (@IsMiseDaniel) August 19, 2015
