TRIBUTES have been paid following the death of former champion boxer George McLaughlin from Letterkenny.
Late of Ard Colmcille, Letterkenny, George passed away at Letterkenny University Hospital on Saturday.
Picture: George McLaughlin (left) with his father John and Joe Gallagher
In 1961, George became the Irish Youth champion at 10 stone. The same year, he also won the Ulster Youth 10 stone title.
His brother Jack won the Irish Youth 9 stone 7lbs title the same night with the Letterkenny boxers cornered by their father, John, at the National Stadium.
In 1957, George McLaughlin won his bout on a day when Letterkenny Boxing Club won all of the McColgan Cup, the McGinley Cup and the Co Board Shield at the Donegal Championships.
In May 1952, he defeated Scottish boxer ‘Piper’ Munroe, via a third round KO at St Finian’s Hall in Falcarragh, where Donegal hosted a Scottish select.
In 1963, George and Jack McLaughlin were part of a Donegal boxing team that headed for Scotland to meet selections from Dundee and Perth, with George winning bouts on both nights.
Letterkenny Boxing Club said; “It’s with great sadness and a heavy heart that we announce the passing of club stalwart George McLaughlin. A man with many a battle within the ring fought his last fight today. One of our hall of famers. May our Lord bless and comfort George and his family during this time of grief. May he rest in peace.”
In a statement, the County Donegal Boxing Board said: “The officers and members of the Donegal Boxing Board wish to express their condolences to the family of George McLaughlin. May God grant him eternal rest. May he rest in peace.”
George is survived by his daughter Charlotte, sons John and Paul, sister Bridie Drein, brothers Jack, Niall, Charlie and the wider family circle.
Remains reposing at his residence from 4pm on Sunday 22nd August until Tuesday 24th with funeral mass at 11am in St. Eunans cathedral and burial afterwards in the family plot at Conwall cemetery
In compliance with current government and HSE guidelines, wake, Requiem Mass and interment are private to family and close friends only.
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