Gerard Devlin RIP

[Rufus T Firefly]

I'm desperately sorry to hear of the untimely passing of Gerard Devlin, a well known figure in Armagh GAA. I note from this year's Armagh fixture booklet that Gerard was still listed as a dual referee. I remember Gerard reffing me when I was playing so that is a considerable amount of time and effort placed in one of the most important and under resourced roles in the GAA in Armagh. He was of course most commonly associated with Cuchulainns Hurling Club here in Armagh City, where he performed roles that included player, manager and Chairman. I note from Cuchulainns Facebook Page that he also represented Ulster in the Railway Cup on a few occasions, was picked as the referee for the All Ireland Minor Hurling Final of 1998 between Cork and Kilkenny and won an Ulster GAA Writers Referee Award.

These accomplishments do not just reflect personal attributes, but reflect a person who was willing to volunteer for the benefit of others. His achievements not only reflect well on him and his family and Club, but further the name of Armagh GAA, which we are all part of.

His passing will leave a major hole in the Armagh City Community and the Armagh GAA Community, but much more than that will represent an incalculable loss to his Club, friends and family. I'm sure I speak for us all when I extend my deepest sympathies to his wife Bebe and the wider family circle.

Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam.

 

[Big Jim]

Hear hear Rufus. A terrible loss to his family and friends. It can also be added to that great list that he was an almost permanent fixture it seemed as a loyal steward on any occasion at the Athletic Grounds. Rarely was there a game he didn't attend to help out.

The word "gentleman" is often used. It's rarely more apt, regardless of what some may think of referees - said with a smile, because at the bottom of it all, we all know how important they are, even when they make mistakes.

I'm not religious, but I hope he finds contentment.

 

[green flag]

So sorry to hear the sad news of Gerards passing, his heart and soul were in the G.A.A. May he rest in peace.