Russell Gray

https://www.stuff.co.nz/sport/football/a-league/102771262/shock-at-phoenix-as-football-stalwart-and-servant-russell-gray-dies-in-sleep

Very sad news indeed, a great guy over all.

RIP.

As above.

I first met him when I was at school, in the mid 70s, when he helped coach my team.  He's been a continuous football face ever since...

Gutted to hear this, he always made me feel welcome when I used to show up to watch the team train. RIP Rusty.

Very sad to hear. RIP!

Indeed. A true gentleman. Would chat to anyone one at length. Probably the person most passionate avout the Phoenix. Will definately be missed.

ironic the last home game being played away from home so no chance for a wellington round of applause for a fallen fan favourite..sums up the year sadly...hopefully the club has a long hard look at the things that matter next season

Not sure I have ever met anyone with a bad word to say about Rusty.

If we had more people at the club with his heart and passion for football then we wouldn't be in the predicament we are in now. 

Will definitely be missed by all :-(

https://www.stuff.co.nz/sport/football/a-league/10...

I bloody wish he would pull on a jersey for a) Russell, b) himself c) the team d) the fans

Chris, just do it !!

Probably got more pace than Kaludjerovic

Just as an FYI, we've sent a bunch of yellow and cream flowers to Russelll's family via the Phoenix. And we're currently looking at the logistics of whipping out the pull over banner at QBE next weekend. 

Russell Gray's Yellow Army - sung for a fair few times is my suggestion. I'll lead off if that's ok?

I think it's a really good idea personally. 

We just got this email from Barbara:

"I don’t know if I am right in sending these words to this account but I feel I have to let you all know how much moved I was to receive your beautiful flowers and your best wishes. Russ always loved hearing from you all and especially when he left Westpac at half time to hear you chanting Russ, Russ give us a wave. We always had a laugh about that. I would like to thank every one connected to yellow fever and it will be something I’ll never forget how much Russ meant to you.

Hope to see you all during the next season as I will continue to be supporting our Phoenix.

Many many thanks

Barbara Gray xx"

For the record, the message in our card said "Our thoughts are with you and your family at this time.  Rusty will be missed by all. Love, Yellow Fever"

I cried.

Such a good guy, I don't blame you Trace. 

Celebrate the life of Russell Gray

08 May 1943 - 02 April 2018

Russell Gray, a staff member for over ten years at the Wellington Phoenix, including roles as both Media and Kit Manager, died peacefully on Monday 2nd April.

Russell will be remembered at a special service on Tuesday 10th April at Westpac Stadium.

Past colleagues, friends and acquaintances are invited to remember Russell, his life and work.

Details:

Leslie Russell Gray Memorial Service

Tuesday 10th April 2018

Members Gallery, Level 4 Westpac Stadium, Wellington

Entry through Main Corporate Gates.

Parking available on Fran Wilde Walk.

Service starts at 11:00am sharp.  

Hope to make this. How should we dress? Formal or in our footy jersies?

A bit of both I'd say.

What the Nix did at the game on the weekend against Victory.

From todays service. I hope I have not offended anyone in doing this. RIP Rusty and my most sincerest condolances to his wife and family and friends.

Without wishing to appear morbid or too over the top because I along with everyone else liked/loved Russell and his stories but after 10 years of service etc how about a new Fever Tee Shirt? Russell's face on it (Like the retro Ricki style) with 

"Russell, Russell

(put pic here)

Give us a Wave"

As a homeage or sign of respect for one of the top charactors in the club's history??

I don't think this is appropriate for the Fever to do and/or sell. 

Money to fever dreams ?

Raises more questions plus you'd have to get the OK from the Gray family. 

If you wanted to do one personally that's up to you, I think there are kiosks that can do one-off designs. 

I think LG's idea came from the right place and for the right reasons.

It's not a bad idea it's just not something the Fever will be doing in the immediate future.  We had a long discussion and decided it did not feel appropriate at this point.  Other's can feel to show respect as they see fit.

If you wish to discuss any other subjects may I suggest a different thread to this one.

Thanks.

Nice post from Melb Vic.

I was looking for another thread and saw this one. OMG 6 months on Tuesday. You're in our thoughts Rusty as the season approaches.