A popular figure in both Cumbria rugby union and the Carlisle club has died eight days before his 86th birthday.
Geoff Jackson was a past president of both Cumbria in 2002/2003 and then Carlisle in 2013/2014.
He died after a short illness on Monday and his funeral will be held at Carlisle Crematorium on Tuesday, November 8 – his birthday – at 3.40pm, followed by a reception at Carlisle rugby club.
Carlisle secretary David Morton said: “First and foremost, Geoff was a devoted family man, closely followed by having a lifelong interest in rugby football.
“His early rugby years were at Wigton and he went on to develop involvement elsewhere and it was always interesting to listen to rugby tales of time past with the late David Burnett and their rugby exploits with the Border Regiment both locally and in Germany.
“Rugby continued as part of his leisure pursuits with involvement at both club and county level.
“His main interest was in administration and management of young players and for many years he was team manager and treasurer for Cumbria Colts, becoming widely known and respected on the northern circuit.
“Quiet in nature, his views were nevertheless always honest and forthright, especially after a pint or two that he enjoyed, especially after away trips.”
His wife Hannah predeceased him by 13 years and he leaves behind a son Colin, daughter Pamela, four grandchildren and four great-grandchildren and he always maintained a close and proud interest in their lives and activities.
Geoff – through his late wife – was also uncle to the former England captain Steve Borthwick, and always retained a keen interest in his playing career.
He remained a loyal supporter of both Cumbria and Carlisle until COVID doubtless frustrated his wishes to be on a touchline watching the game he loved.
