TRIBUTES continue to pour in from around the world as news of the passing of Empangeni Rugby Football Club (ERFC) Honorary President and local rugby stalwart, Hugh Moore on Sunday spreads.
Moore fell ill while visiting his beloved family in England during October, and remained hospitalised there until his death on Sunday, following complications after surgery earlier in his stay.
He leaves his wife Greta, daughters Abbey and Louisa, son Steven and young grandsons Jonah, Eli, Rory and Cullen.
Tributes
‘As much a mentor as he was a coach, gregarious in nature as he was hard, ruthless and talented in his playing days – and yet compassionate and with an overwhelming desire to inspire and positively impact upon those who were fortunate to cross his path. A true leader, a giant…’ said Charlie Singery.
‘For me, Hugh was larger than life. He was a role model, a mentor, a friend and a coach who epitomised that ‘golden era’ in Zululand. Most of all, he was a great human being. You will be sorely missed, big guy!’ said Mike Farquharson.
ERFC President Simon Harvey extended condolences to the local rugby fraternity by saying ‘We mourn the loss of one of our club stalwarts.
To his family, we send our deepest condolences and offer our support through this time. His contribution to the ERFC has been immeasurable – representing the Club as Natal 8th man, Coach and President.
A rugby fan, astute businessman and committed family man whose antics on and off the field are legendary,’ he said.
The family remains rallied around Greta Moore and her daughters Abbey and Louisa, who live in the United Kingdom. Hugh also leaves a son, Steven, who lives in Australia.
‘Rest in peace dad – I’m going to miss you, and feel privileged your grandsons got to meet you,’ said Steven.
‘I want to thank each and every one of you for your kind words of comfort and support, and acts of kindness. It means so much to our family!’ said Louisa Moore, responding to the influx of messages on Facebook.
Speaking from the UK this week, Abbey Moore sincerely thanked the Zululand community for their love and support and said initial plans were for a memorial service at the Empangeni Rugby Club on Friday, 8 January 2016.
If you have a message for the Moore family, leave it in the comments below.
