THE family of the late Vera Hough, who died aged 90 after a lifetime of solid support for Oldham Rugby, gave her a magnificent send-off when celebrating her life at a function in the high-class, ultra-modern Saddleworth Rangers clubhouse.
It was Vera’s wish that she should have a private, family-only funeral service, followed by a get-together of wider family, friends and Roughyeds supporters - and that’s exactly what she got.
“Her daughter Valerie did her proud — no doubt about that,”
commented Shirley Mullaney, one of Vera’s many friends from the world of rugby league.
Another, Gordon Henthorn, there in his red and white Oldham RLFC scarf, performed solo and privately the little half-time ritual he and Vera had shared at home games over the last quarter of a century - with a flask of hot coffee and a splash of brandy.
“It was a very personal thing — and my way of showing my last respects,” said Gordon. “She would have liked that.”
She would indeed, just as she would have liked the review of her action-packed, no-holds-barred life, as presented by another close friend.
Her beloved Oldham RLFC figured prominently in her life and the family thanked the club for providing her with so much pleasure and so many memorable and unforgettable moments.
The club wishes to thank Vera too — for her loyalty, her support and her hard work on behalf of the club for the best part of a century. Thanks again Vera, you’ll be sorely missed by all at the Roughyeds.
