J.R (RUFUS) HALL DEC’D
When Rufus Hall died on Tuesday 6th. October, aged 93 years Tynedale RFC lost one of its oldest ex-players. A huge, powerful man, Rufus played almost anywhere in the forwards, and represented the club for more than 20 years. Latterly he was Captain of the 3rdXV, where he took great pride in encouraging (and protecting) junior players.
When his playing days were over Rufus turned to refereeing, and in the 1970’s he was a club Coach, Selector and Team Manager. ”Player, Referee, Coach, Selector, Team Manager, supporter, rugby enthusiast and resolute Tynedale man” was how his daughter Lindsey has described him.
Rufus first played senior rugby at Ryton when he was 17 years old and always maintained lifelong links with Ryton RFC. He also had strong ties with Northern FC especially, and many other clubs. He was delighted that two nephews followed him into club rugby; Malcolm Thompson to Ryton and Peter Henderson to Tynedale. However he was proudest that his son Jonathan turned out for the Blue & Whites, before playing for Headingley, Esher, Bedford and Old Verulamians latterly.
Rufus’s late wife Helen was also an enthusiastic Tynedale stalwart and helper in support of her husband and Jon. Rufus leaves a daughter Lindsey, son Jonathan and granddaughters Monique and Danielle.
Rufus enjoyed the annual Birthday Bashes which followed his 90th, and his family now say that, when circumstances allow, there will be a memorial Bash to celebrate his life.
D.F. Hamilton

Click Here to view a tribute page for John 'Rufus' Hall.