Heartfelt tributes are pouring in from both sides of the Atlantic following the sudden death of Gary Croke, a beloved husband, father of two, and respected community member. Gary passed away unexpectedly on Monday, November 24, while visiting the UK with his family ahead of planned Thanksgiving celebrations in Ireland.
Gary, originally from Waterford City, had been living in Virginia, USA, where he worked as a supervisor at Jefferson Lab. He was deeply involved in the local soccer community, known not only as a dedicated youth coach but also as an active participant in several adult leagues. His death has left communities in Waterford and Virginia devastated, with loved ones describing their loss as “unthinkable” and “heartbreaking.”
At the time of his passing, Gary was in Brighton, UK with his wife Alysia and their children Molly (17) and Patrick (10). With the family far from home, they now face significant emotional and financial challenges. In response, friends and supporters have launched a GoFundMe campaign titled “Support for Gary’s Family After Tragic Loss.” The fundraiser has already surpassed €28,000 ($32,500).
Organisers said the goal is to “relieve some of the financial burdens” on Gary’s widow, enabling her to focus on providing stability for their children as they continue their education and adjust to life without their father. “Gary was cherished by so many,” they said. “Supporting his family now is the best way we can honour the love and generosity he shared with everyone around him.”
Tributes have continued to flow online. Messages posted to RIP.ie include:
- “Rest in peace, sweet, kind and gentle Gary. Sincere condolences to the family.”
- Another tribute from a colleague at Jefferson Lab described him as “universally admired and loved… His dedication, humour and leadership made it a pleasure to work with him. He will be sorely missed.”
- One friend wrote: “A friendly gentleman with a warm heart and always full of craic — he made every moment brighter.”
According to his death notice, Gary is “sadly missed by his heartbroken and loving wife Alysia; son Patrick; daughter Molly; parents Paul and Helen; brothers Paul and Neil; sister-in-law Amy; nephews Justin and Brandon; nieces Sophie and Evie; aunt Patricka Keogh; friends Gavin and Diane Fitzgerald; and the extended Croke, Keogh and Orrel families, along with his wide circle of friends in Ireland, the USA, and the UK.”
Gary will lie in repose at Thompson’s Funeral Home, Barrack Street, Waterford, on Thursday, December 4, from 3pm to 5pm, with Vigil Prayers and the Rosary at 4.30pm. A private cremation will follow at a later date.
Mourners are invited, if they wish, to make donations to the Kevin Bell Repatriation Trust in lieu of flowers.
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