The community of Armagh gathered to honor the life of local GAA star Laura McGibbon during a heartfelt funeral service held at St Peter’s Church on March 1, 2024. Laura, a mother of two and an accomplished athlete, passed away earlier this week, leaving a profound impact on those who knew her.
Laura was a member of the Armagh ladies team that claimed the 2012 All-Ireland Intermediate Football Championship. Her exceptional performances throughout that season earned her an All-Star nomination, along with Player of the Match titles in both the Ulster and All-Ireland finals.
Fr Colum Murphy, the parish priest, reflected on Laura’s dedication to sport, noting that she “always had a football close by” from a very young age. Her love for sport began with her admiration for Liverpool Football Club, eventually leading her to excel in various sports, including snooker and boxing, before finding her passion for Gaelic football.
During the service, Fr Murphy shared poignant memories of Laura’s relationship with her husband, Martin McGibbon. The couple first met at football training when they were just 16 years old. Their bond quickly deepened, with Martin presenting Laura with a matching heart necklace shortly after they met. “They were inseparable from day one,” he said, highlighting the love they shared.
Laura and Martin welcomed their daughters, Eirinn and Maeva, into their lives, which Fr Murphy described as a source of immense joy for Laura. “She was the best mummy anyone could ask for,” he remarked, noting that her daughters were the “absolute light of her life.” He assured the family that Laura would always be with them, watching over them as a “bright star in the sky.”
Fr Murphy also expressed gratitude for the community’s support of Laura’s family during this trying time. He emphasized the strong sense of togetherness in the parish, stating, “This community comes together, so that for those who need it, they literally become a new family, offering support and love that is above and beyond.”
Laura’s legacy as an athlete and a community member resonated throughout the service. The Armagh Ladies Gaelic Football Association (LGFA) stated, “All of us in Armagh LGFA are heartbroken by the sudden passing of our former All-Ireland winning player, Laura McGibbon (née Brown).” They emphasized her remarkable achievements on the pitch while praising her warm-hearted nature off it.
Laura was described as a “ferocious full-back” who maintained a radiant smile and was always there for her teammates. The association highlighted that her legacy would continue through the memories she created and the love she freely shared.
The club Clann Éireann, where Laura played, extended its condolences, stating, “We would like to extend our deepest sympathies to the McGibbon/Brown families on the passing of our esteemed member, former player, coach, and current staff member Laura.”
Tributes poured in from neighbouring clubs, including St Paul’s GFC, which expressed deep sadness over Laura’s death. The Carrickdale Hotel, long-time sponsors of Armagh LGFA, also offered their condolences, remembering Laura as an “exceptional talent” who proudly represented her county for many years.
As the community mourns the loss of Laura McGibbon, her contributions to sport and her loving spirit will not be forgotten. Friends, family, and teammates will continue to honor her memory, ensuring that her legacy endures.
