TRIBUTES have been paid following the tragic death of a rugby player whose family is pleading for help to bring him home to Ireland.
Graham Murray, 34, died in a crash on Thursday, February 20 in the UK, where he has lived since moving from Cork.
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Graham Murray died on February 20
His death prompted a deluge of tributes for a man who was described as a “proud Irishman and true gentlemen”.
Before moving to England, he was a popular figure in his hometown of Douglas, having played for the local rugby club from a young age.
After moving to England, meanwhile, ‘Poochie’ kept up his rugby exploits with Beckenham RFC.
In a loving tribute to him, Douglas RFC revealed that all of the club’s sporting fixtures were postponed last weekend as a mark of respect.
A club statement read: “Graham was a devoted husband, father, son, son-in-law, brother, and brother-in-law.
“He was a fantastic clubman, teammate and friend to all that knew him.
“He played for Douglas RFC from underage to J1 level and was part of the team that won the Martin O Sullivan Cup.
“He certainly did not fit the mould of a traditional prop with his side steps, drop goal attempts and his ability to confuse the opposition and indeed his own team mates at times!
“He will be fondly remembered for his match day kits which were often a mix and match from several clubs.
“Grahams passing will be deeply felt by everyone that knew him as a great character who always lifted the spirits of anyone who came into contact with him.
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“He will be sorely missed by his family, friends, and the wide rugby community.
“We wish to pass on our heartfelt condolences to his beloved wife Aisling, son Tadgh, parents Theresa and James, brothers Alan and Jason and in-laws.”
Murray was laid to rest last Sunday in his adopted home of Beckenham.
And a GoFundMe page has been set up to raise funds in order to bring him home to his home county of Cork.
The campaign, set up up Colin Andrews, has raised £57.000 at time of writing.
Alongside photos of Murray, the page described him as a “dear colleague” whose professional life was “marked by his kindness, generosity, and willingness to help anyone in need.”
It read: “Graham was a beloved husband to Aisling, a devoted father to Tadhg, and was eagerly anticipating the birth of their second child. He was a cherished son, son-in-law, brother, brother-in-law, and friend.
“A proud Irishman and true gentleman, at O’Halloran and O’Brien Graham’s professional life was marked by his kindness, generosity, and willingness to help anyone in need.
“His unwavering politeness and professional demeanour made him a pleasure to work with and speak to every day.
“His thoughtful words and actions continue to inspire us to lead with kindness and compassion.
“His love for rugby was evident throughout his life—from his childhood club, Douglas Rugby Club in Cork, to his dedicated support and play for Munster and Beckenham RFC.
“Known affectionately as ‘Poochie’ at Douglas RFC, he carried his remarkable skill, infectious smile, and generous spirit to Beckenham RFC, where he became legendary for his unpredictable play—his dynamic running, offloading, and kicking game—and for providing the club with the worst excuse for being late to training: “concrete Tuesdays.”
“Most recently, Graham was captain of Beckenham RFC 2XV, having previously been a key member of the 1XV squad for many seasons.
“With nearly 150 caps, he played an essential role in the 1XV league-winning sides of 2018/19 and 2021/22 and was instrumental in the 2XV’s promotion last season.
“Graham’s deep connection to his heritage will be honoured with his repatriation to Ireland, where he will be laid to rest in his homeland.”
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