Sadness at death of former Garryowen rugby player Neville Furlong

THERE is widespread sadness in Limerick this Tuesday with news of the death of former Garryowen FC player and Ireland rugby international Neville Furlong following illness.

A popular and hard working member of Garryowen FC, the late Neville Furlong, who was aged 49 and lived in Castleconnell, represented the Dooradoyle club as a player, underage coach and Chairman of Underage Rugby.

It is with deep regret that we learn of the death of Neville Furlong, former player for GFC and @IrishRugby and friend to many. RIP

— Garryowen FC (@GarryowenFC) September 26, 2017

He also had the distinction of representing Ireland as a player, winning two caps on the 1992 tour to New Zealand. The winger scored a try in the second Test defeat in Wellington, the last man to score a try for Ireland when it was still worth four points.

Neville Furlong, who played minor and U-21 football with Wexford, began to concentrate on rugby during his days in NUIG, formerly UCG. He played with the Irish Universities side before graduating to Connacht, the Irish 'A' team, and eventually the full international side.

After recovering from an ankle injury sustained on the 1992 tour to New Zealand, Neville returned to club rugby and assisted Garryowen to All-Ireland League glory in 1995.

He was also involved with Patrickswell GAA as a senior trainer in 2005-2006.

Also Senior team trainer @patrickswellgaa from 05 to 06.Reached consecutive semi final & final. So sad, a gent who always led by example RIP https://t.co/Q1d2tFIHCf

— Paul Foley (@pfoley194) September 26, 2017

He is survived by his wife Trish, sons Ódran and Kyle. He passed away peacefully at Milford Hospice.

The death has occurred of Neville Furlong, Island View, Stradbally, Castleconnell and Wexford, peacefully at Milford Hospice. Beloved son of the late Ronan and loving brother of the late Rhonda. Sadly missed by his loving wife Trish, sons Ódran and Kyle, mother Collette, brothers Damien, Ronan and Kenan, sister Leah, extended family and a wide circle of friends.

Reposing at Milford Care Centre, Castletroy this Wednesday from 5 pm, with removal at 8.30pm to St. Joseph's Church, Castleconnell. Requiem Mass on Thursday at 11.30am, burial afterwards in St. Joseph's Cemetery, Castleconnell. Family flowers only please, donations, if desired, to Milford Hospice.