HUNDREDS packed out St Patrick’s Catholic Church on Thursday to pay respect to Tamworth AFL pioneer and much-loved community man, Gerry Griffiths, who passed away suddenly last week.
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On-field rivals stood shoulder-to-shoulder in their team colours to farewell one of the key figures in founding and growing Aussie Rules in the region.
While his love and passion for AFL in the New England was acknowledged, it was clear Mr Griffiths’ life in Tamworth had touched some wide reaches within the community.
Tamworth AFL secretary Josh McKenzie gave a eulogy for the former umpire and administrator, describing him as a “humble, hardworking, honest and patient man”.
“He had a genuine love for the game and the people within it,” Mr McKenzie said.
The league previously honoured Mr Griffiths for his efforts, naming him as the first life member of the Tamworth AFL in 2008 and naming the league’s annual leading goal scorer medal, the Gerry Griffiths medal.