Updated with funeral arrangements – It is with great sadness that Blaydon RFC announce the loss of one of our rugby family: Derek Murray
Details of arrangements:
- A service will be held at Mountsett Crematorium on Friday 19th July at 12:30
- A reception will follow at Blaydon Cricket Club
Please respect family wishes, NO BLACK TIES, club ties where available, or any other colour other than black. Derek himself never owned a black tie and would not want people wearing a black tie at his funeral.
All who knew Derek or wish to pay their respects will be welcome at the service and reception.
Family flowers only requested please, a collection will be made after the service for donations to ‘Daft as a Brush’ cancer patient care. https://www.daftasabrush.org.uk/about-us/
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Derek was one of the great stalwarts of Blaydon RFC having served the club for decades; as a player, a coach, member of the committee and one of the club’s best fans.
Derek was a true gent, many people have already expressed on social media that they felt privileged to have known him and he will be sadly missed by many friends at Blaydon RFC, Rest In Peace Derek.
Derek Murray – 1931 – 2019
Sadly, Derek died in hospital in his 88th year on Monday 1st July and will be sadly missed by all his sporting friends in the North East and in particular, Blaydon Rugby Football Club.
Derek was a life member of Blaydon following on from his Father Jack and also a Life Member of the Durham County Rugby Football Union Committee for whom he was President in 1974/75.
Derek played rugby for Blaydon for many years at all levels culminating in representing the 1st XV in the latter stages of his playing career and also in his earlier days he carried out the arduous administrative duties of being Team Secretary well before the arrival of modern day technology of mobile phones and computers. Derek posted team sheets in Camsell’s the Barbers in Blaydon every week relying on players to find if they were selected.
Latterly, whilst still supporting the club at all matches and functions and continuing his duties on the County Committee, he also served as a Trustee for the Blaydon club.
Derek, during his sporting life, was always supported by his wife Jean who pre-deceased him several, years ago.
For his efforts in the past at Blaydon Derek will be irreplaceable and Blaydon Rugby Club and all members send condolences to his son Ian and his family at this very sad time.
Details of funeral arrangements will follow when available.
JIM HUXLEY
