Soccer legend passes away
Bryan Orritt (77), who came to South Africa to play professional football in South Africa in the late sixties and who resided in the South for many years thereafter, sadly passed away on Monday March 24 2014 after a long illness.
SOUTH OF JOHANNESBURG – Bryan, fondly known as “Taffy”, was born in Caernarfon, Wales, United Kingdom on February 22, 1937. He began his football career with a local club, Llanfair PG before joining Bangor City. As a Welsh professional, playing inside forward or half wing, he made more than 200 appearances in the Football League, and was capped three times for Wales at under-23 level.
In 1956 he joined English First Division club, Birmingham City, who he went on to play for in the finals of 1960 and 1961 Inter-Cities Fairs Cups, becoming one of the first Welsh footballers to take part in European competition.
In 1962 he moved to Middlesbrough, where he became the first substitute ever played by a professional club which changed the rule books for professional football. He emigrated to South Africa in the 1970s, playing for Durban City and later moving to the South where he played for Southern Suburbs Football Club. It was here –Â in the South that Bryan called home and formed many firm friendships. Bryan was also known for his sports shop Bryan Orritt Sports in Rissik Street as well as for coaching football underprivileged youths on the mines.
Even after decades have passed since Bryan played in the UK – he was certainly not forgotten. His previous professional clubs, fans and friends alike have been paying tribute to Bryan via the web and in their papers overseas web.
Blues spokesperson, Andy Walker said, “Everybody associated with Birmingham City Football Club was saddened to learn of the passing of Bryan Orritt and the club would like to take this opportunity to send condolences to Bryan’s family and friends at this sad time.”
The CHRONICLE spoke to his son, Gareth Orritt and his wife Lauren. “Dad had a stroke in 2008 and still managed to live a near normal life until August 2012, when he suffered another severe stroke. Although the last 19 months were very difficult – he fought a brave battle. A true fighter right to the end. ”
He was one of the founding members of the Cavaliers and played bowls at Ridgepark Bowling Club for many years and Bryan and his wife, Jackie enjoyed many a good time with friends there – good memories which will be treasured by friends and family alike.
“A greater father one could never have – he loved and enjoyed his grandchildren to the full. He was a very good person, I am very proud to say that he was my father, he will be sadly missed but never forgotten, ” said Gareth. Bryan had a reputation as being a strong and hard football player but off the field a true gentleman and later when his grandchildren were born a truly besotted grandfather.
Bryan leaves his wife Jackie; his daughter and son-in-law, Gillian and Brad and their two children, Nathan and Cassidy and son and daughter-in-law, Gareth and Lauren and their two sons Ethan and Noah.
“Our entire family are most appreciative to JAFTA for all they did for Bryan, making his last few months there very comfortable their dedication and hard work will always be remembered and truly appreciated. We would also like to thank the members of the Cavaliers and Ridgepark Sports Club, for their overwhelming support and kindness,” Gareth added.
Bryan’s funeral will take place today Thursday April 3 at the Highway Assembly of God, Edenvale at 11:00 and refreshments will be served thereafter at Southern Suburbs Recreation Centre, Rosettenville, courtesy of the Cavaliers and Ridgepark Bowling Club.
