Passing of former Ipswich Town star leaves void in Mayo community

The people of north Mayo lost a key cornerstone of the community following the sudden passing of a cherished member of the fabric of Our Lady's Secondary School, Belmullet, in Rob Turner.

Rob spent decades giving his time to the schoolchildren of Erris across a myriad of roles, including PE teacher, Special Needs Assistant, and many more.

During his 28 years of service, he was able to impart his unyielding love and passion for soccer to those on the Atlantic coast.

Prior to his near lifetime in the barony, Turner carved out an illustrious playing career which took him to the top of the game.

Turner made youth appearances for England, scored in a 1-1 draw against the Netherlands, and even hoisted the FA Youth Cup aloft for Ipswich Town before making his way into the senior ranks for The Tractor Boys.

Moves to MVV Maastricht, Swansea City, and Colchester United followed, before hanging up the boots and finding his home in the West.

That was far from where his love for the beautiful game ended. He offered invaluable and precious advice to the young ballers coming through in Our Lady's, as well as helping mould the fortunes of Iorras Aontaithe.

His impact on the people of Erris came in for special words from The Mayo News Head of Sport, Michael Gallagher, as he reminisced on the great man.

The late Rob Turner. Pic: rip.ie

"Being in his presence was a joy. He wasn't a native Erris person, but he became more Erris than the Erris people ourselves.

"He was the nicest man, and he will be a huge loss to his family, Our Lady's, and Erris as a whole."

The school also shared their memories in a touching statement on their Facebook page.

Rob’s passion, generosity of spirit, and genuine care for others set an example to us all.

"Though his passing comes far too soon, his legacy will live on in the hearts of our students, staff, and the wider school community."

Rob will be sorely missed by his wife Maureen (née Ruddy), his children Ali, Samantha and Jack, his grandchildren Danielle, Nathan, Charlie, Jack, Katie, Kayla and Finn, son-in-law Killian, daughter-in-law Sarah, brothers Alan and Paul, sisters Wendy and Angie, and all who were fortunate enough to interact with him on the winding path of life.

His funeral details will be released in the coming days.