Tributes pour in for 'one of life's true gentlemen' after his sudden death

A post on Facebook from East Belfast FC says: "East Belfast FC is devastated to learn this morning about the passing of Gary Laverty, a former coach and player at our football club.

"Our deepest condolences are with the immediate and wider family at this heartbreaking time.

"Gary was nothing short of a gentleman and was very well liked at the club. He was friendly, selfless and was an integral part of the dressing room always bringing a smile to the faces of both the players and the staff.

"He gave up his Tuesday and Thursday nights to coach East Belfast 11’s for the 2018-2019 season and helped the team win Division 3B and the Walter Moore Cup. He even played a handful matches and scored a memorable goal or two.

"It is with great sadness the football club mourns his passing. Our sympathies are with his wife and two children along with his relatives, and everyone else who is affected by his death.

"East Belfast FC mourns the loss of a good coach, a good friend and a good man. Our thoughts are with those who have lost a friend, a son, a brother, a father and a husband."

A Tweet from East Belfast PUP said: " The officer's and members of East Belfast PUP branch deeply regret the heartbreaking news of the sudden death of Gary Laverty.

"Our deepest sympathy go to Lav, Patsy and family.

"Never to be forgotten Gary done tremendous work within East Belfast. One of life's true gentlemen."

A Tweet from Orangefield Old Boys said: "The club are saddened to hear of the passing of Gary Laverty. Our thoughts and prayers go out to his friends and family at this sad time — feeling sad".

And another from Ashfield Boys High School Over 35s said: "Ashfield over 35 would like to pass on our deepest condolences to the Laverty family after hearing the sad news that former Ashfield boy Gary has passed away.

"Our thoughts and prayers are with the Laverty family at this sad time."

In another post a friend says: "Sad news about Gary Laverty, a genuine great guy and one of life’s true gentlemen. Loved having chats with him he was always talking football tactics. Here’s one of my fav memories of him I hoked out earlier.Came on the pitch 2 mins from coaching the team and scored. RIP Friend".