Hull FC can confirm that the MKM Stadium will host a public memorial service for Johnny Whiteley MBE on Monday 14th March.
The service will be a celebration of John’s life, reflecting his time growing up in the city, his legendary career with Hull FC and his dedication to the local community.
The service will be followed by a private cremation for immediate family only. We politely ask that people respect this request.
The memorial service will be open to the public and invited guests, with access to the stadium from 12 noon.
Those arriving by car are asked to park in the stadium’s South Stand car park, accessible via the Anlaby Road entrance.
The service will commence at 12.45pm inside the stadium in front of the West Stand, being led by Hull FC Club Chaplain Rev. Tony Cotson and several guest speakers.
Johnny’s remarkable life will be reflected in pictures, video and with tributes from representatives of Hull FC, Hull KR, West Hull ARLFC and the local community.
Hull FC’s directors, staff, coaches and various playing squads will attend the service, alongside a host of Hull FC ex-players.
Students from the Boulevard Academy, the school based on the site of Hull FC’s former ground which also has a house named after Whiteley, will also pay their own tribute.
Live musical performances will also accompany the service, including a special rendition of ‘Old Faithful’ from Hull’s All For One choir.
Prior to the service, the funeral cortege will pass through the west side of the city, including Hessle Road, where Johnny was born and proudly grew up, before arriving at the stadium.
Guests are advised not to bring flowers at the request of the family. However, guests will be able to donate on the day to the Hull FC Community Foundation, of which Johnny was a long-serving patron, and these funds will go towards a community initiative that will be delivered in his honour.
As a mark of respect, Hull FC will be closing the club offices and retail stores at 12 noon on Monday 14th March – retail stores will reopen at 2.30pm, and the club offices will re-open at 9.00am the following day.
Ex-players are advised to arrange their attendance by notifying the Hull FC Ex-Players Association via email at info@hullfc-explayers.co.uk or by calling or messaging Chairperson Keith Tindall on 07929 450886, or Craig O’Donnell on 07956512830.
All other enquiries should be directed to M Garton & Son – www.mgarton.co.uk.
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