Attention: You are using an outdated browser, device or you do not have the latest version of JavaScript downloaded and so this website may not work as expected. Please download the latest software or switch device to avoid further issues.
| 2 Apr 2017 | |
| Obituaries |
George Gifford McConkey, who passed away at the Ulster Hospital on 2 April 2017 following a short illness, was 79.
Gifford, as he was known to his many friends, was born on 28 March 1938 and attended Bangor Grammar School between 1950 and 1955.
Although his name for many years was synonymous with Bangor Football Club, his sporting accomplishments at the School were both diverse and noteworthy. Not only did he play rugby for the Under-14s in 1951-52 and the Medallion XV in 1952-53, he also turned out for the BGS cricket 1st XI in 1955.
He was an enthusiastic member of the Old Boys Association (Bangor Grammarians) and was a frequent attendee at the annual Bangor Dinner.
The former vice-principal of Gransha Boys’ High School, who resided in Groomsport, was Club President at Bangor FC. He had previously served as Club Secretary, as a Director and then Chairman.
He was a former President of the Irish League Ltd. and the NI Schoolboy FA. He also represented Bangor on the County Antrim FA and was a life member of the Irish FA.
According to a tribute by Bangor FC, Gifford attended Bangor’s home matches until the final few weeks of his life, as well as regularly attending Northern Ireland international home games.
Gifford is survived by his wife Elizabeth, daughter Amanda, son Chris and daughter-in-law Helen, and the wider family circle. Following a private service at Roselawn on 6 April, a Service of Thanksgiving was held in Wesley Centenary Methodist Church, Bangor.
