Tributes have been paid following the passing of highly regarded ‘football man and gentleman’, Marshall Beattie.
The former Chairman of Portadown Football Club – who sadly passed away on March 30 at hospital – had been a passionate lifelong supporter of the team and was hugely influential in the club’s development, even prior to his appointment to the position in 1985.
A spokesperson for Portadown FC said: “Marshall was a lifelong Portadown fan and began following the club in 1957. He supported the club through thick and thin with great passion at home and away.
“In September 1982 he was appointed to the Board of Directors at Shamrock Park, rising rapidly to the position of Vice-Chairman just a year later.
Of his dedication and determined nature, the spokesperson continued: “He went about his duties in a quiet and unassuming manner, working tirelessly to bring in sponsorship, wheeling and dealing in the transfer market and overseeing many fundraising ventures.
“In November 1985 Marshall was appointed Chairman of the club, a position he held for nine years.
“His administrative attributes were put to good use where he represented the club as a delegate to the Irish League and a Mid-Ulster FA representative to the IFA. Internally he chaired the social club committee and sat on the management committee.
“Marshall presided over club affairs during the most successful period in the club’s history during which the team won two league titles, the Irish Cup, two Budweiser cups, Ulster Cup, Gold Cup and two Mid- Ulster Cups.
“We send our sincere condolences to Neal, Beverly, Wendy and all the family circle at this sad time.”
Whilst it is true to say Marshall has left a long-lasting impression on his beloved club, his love for the sport extended far beyond his own team.
A spokesperson for Markethill Swifts thanked Marshall for his vital contribution to the formation of their team in Marshall’s hometown of Markethill: “Marshall was instrumental in the formation of our club and was our first club chairman.
“We are forever thankful for all the help and support that Marshall provided in those early years and we have fond memories of the many good times shared with Marshall over the years.
“We assure Neal, Beverly, Wendy and the entire family circle of our thoughts and prayers at this sad time.
A representative of Mid Ulster Football Association said of the committed sportsman: “The Mid Ulster Football Association would offer its sympathies on learning of the sad passing of former Portadown Chairman Marshall Beattie, a real football man and gentlemen, as well as MUFA Life Member.
“Thoughts and prayers with the family, friends, and all at Portadown.”
Marshall’s funeral service took place on April 1, 2024 in Kilcluney Parish Church where he has been laid to rest in the adjoining churchyard.
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