Mullingar RFC mourn passing of Tom Murphy, a true club stalwart

Mullingar Rugby Football Club are in mourning following the death of Tom Murphy, one of their most devoted and long-serving members, who passed away peacefully at his home on the Delvin Road, Mullingar, on Saturday, 11 July, surrounded by his loving family.

Originally from Clonmel, County Tipperary, Tom made Mullingar his home and, over a lifetime, gave extraordinary service to rugby in the town. Few members have served the club in as many capacities – captain, secretary, team selector, and coach for many years – and his contribution was recognised with the award of Honorary Life Membership, an honour reserved for those whose service goes far beyond the ordinary.

Those who knew Tom speak of a man who embodied everything Mullingar RFC aspire to be. He was an example of club culture and values in action: generous with his time, devoted to the development of players, and unwavering in his support through every era of the club’s growth.

He played a significant part in building the club into what they are today, and it was a source of great pride to members that Tom was present at the official opening of the new facilities just weeks ago – a fitting moment for a man who had helped lay so many of its foundations.

Tom’s legacy at the club is a living one. His sons Raymond, Brian, and Declan all wore the Mullingar jersey as players and now coach at the club, carrying forward the standards their father set. His wife Mary has been every bit as much a part of club life, supporting players over many years and providing meals after matches.

Tom is survived by his wife Mary, his sons Raymond, Brian, and Declan, his daughters-in-law, grandchildren, brother and sister, extended family, neighbours, and is also mourned by a wide circle of friends, to whom the club extend deepest sympathies. Members of Mullingar RFC will form a guard of honour in club colours as a mark of respect.

Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam dílis.

(John Keane, PRO, Mullingar Rugby Club.)