Alec Withers RIP.

John McMurtry

–

July 6, 2011

It’s with much regret that we announce the death of Alex Withers who passed away peacefully in his sleep this morning after a period of illness.

Alec was a long time supporter of the site, lifelong Ulster fan and popular figure in the Scoop Bar though is perhaps best known as one of the founding members of the most haphazard bunch of Ulster Rugby travelling supporters, the infamous Boys on Tour.

Unfortunately Alec’s illness prevented him attending Ravenhill as often as he would have liked last season but he was one of the many travelling supporters fortunate enough to be present at the Liberty Stadium on Friday 26th May 2006 to witness Ulster winning the Celtic League in that memorable final game of the season.

Well, not strictly true as, I believe, true to form, the Boys on Tour missed most of the game but did manage to get to the team hotel on time to welcome the victorious Ulster side after the match for a memorable night of celebration and Alec is pictured above left with the trophy in the background.

The funeral will take place on Friday 8th July 10.00am at Fisherwick Presbyterian Church, Malone Road, Belfast, following on to Roselawn Cemetery for 11:30am.

The Front Row Union offers our sincere condolences to Alec’s family and friends.

The final word goes to his friends in Boys on Tour.

Sadly missed, never forgotten.

Boys on Tour – 1.

Stand up for the Ulsterman.

5 responses to “Alec Withers RIP.”

johnny king

July 14, 2011

Very sad to hear this. I was in France enduring a family holiday until now. Alec was a gentleman, always a bit of craic and a solid Ulster supporter. Condolences to Alec’s family.

Reply
glynncommando

July 9, 2011

Very sad news indeed. Thoughts are with Alec’s family and friends.

Reply
Caveman

July 6, 2011

Two good fans less next season – Alex and Granville.

Reply
Boys on Tour

July 6, 2011

Cheers John – infact we missed the whole game – but we were there in spirit – as Alex will be on the prom next season. Stand up for the Ulsterman!!

Reply
1. Junty
  
  July 7, 2011
  
  The 1st time I met Alec was when I took my HGV class 2 driving test in the fire engine. Alec was the examiner. Met him numerous times since that, both in the Fire Brigade circles and more recently of course at Ravenhill and further afield at the away matches. As has been said above – gone but won’t be forgotten.
  
  Reply