Rugby players and spectators gathered for a two minute silence in honour of three local legends from the club.
Bernard and Joan O’Malley, and Graham Suthren, have all sadly died recently.
The two minute’s silence at the match between Southport Rugby Club and Warrington was also held to remember the fallen as the match took place during Remembrance weekend.
Southport couple Bernard and Joan O’Malley passed away within days of each other aged 88 -years-old following 65 years of married life.
Mr and Mrs O’Malley founded what is now Nationwide Produce PLC, which has its headquarters on Lord Street in Southport town centre.
The couple and their family have grown Nationwide Produce PLC nearly 50 years ago into one of the largest, longest established, and most diverse produce companies in the UK with a £186m turnover operating across four countries and employing 300 staff.
They have long been hugely supportive of a wide range of community projects in the Southport area and beyond., including Southport Rugby Club.
The couple supported the club at a time when it needed support the most, with the Nationwide logo proudly worn on the front of the shirts for many years.
Donations are being gratefully accepted in lieu of flowers for The Walton Centre who cared for Bernard O’Malley so well. These can be sent care of David at Massam and Marshall Independent Funeral Directors, 137-139 Manchester Road, Southport, PR9 9BD telephone 01704549222.
Southport Rugby Football Club clubman, Graham Suthren, passed away peacefully on the morning of Wednesday 6th of November 2024.
Former first-team back-row player, Graham held many roles of the pitch too at Southport RFC, such as first team head coach, colts head coach and community coordinator.
Full tribute to Graham.
Southport RFC described him as “a true gentleman and a legend of our club; Graham will be sadly missed. Our thoughts are with Davina and family.
“Rest in Peace, Graham.”
The funeral for Graham Suthren will take place at West Lancs Crematorium at 11am on Friday 22nd November 2024 followed by a wake at Southport Rugby Football Club from 12.30pm. No flowers please. There will be a collection for Queenscourt Hospice at the service and the club. As a nod to Graham, please wear rugby shirts or odd socks. The funeral procession will head past Southport RFC on Waterloo Road at 10.30am for anyone wishing to join the procession or pay their respects.
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