Mags Gargan
Ryan McBride was the captain of Derry City The “heartbroken” family of Derry footballer Ryan McBride is being supported in their grief by the community’s “spirituality of presence”, according to their parish priest.
The hugely respected Derry City captain died suddenly on Sunday when he went for a nap after training. He leaves his father Lexie, sisters Colleen, Siunin and Caitlain, his grandfather Edward and partner Mairead.
“They are a very close family,” said Fr Aidan Mullan of Longtower parish. “His father Lexie is devastated. You can see the pain in his face but he has a lovely composure that is amazing amidst all the chaos he must feel in his heart.
Faith
“Faith is very important to Ryan’s grandparents and his father. His grandparents received Holy Communion this morning and offered it up for Ryan.”
Tributes have poured in for the 27-year-old, including from President Michael D. Higgins and Archbishop Eamon Martin who is praying for Ryan’s family and friends.
“The outpouring of comments shows that he was well thought of in the community at large,” said Fr Mullan. “He was a warrior on the football field – fearless, skilful and he gave his heart to Derry City. He was a shy boy away from the football field and a very modest young man. The family was very important to him. Ryan was a lovely role model for young boys and girls as well as all the Derry City supporters.”
Fr Mullan said the community is supporting Ryan’s family through “a spirituality of presence”. “There is a spirituality in a just handshake, a touch, a presence, of being there. Ryan’s father feels the strength of that even today. You can’t quantify that spirituality of presence and that is what the community is giving.”