Tributes pour in for popular former Edinburgh rugby coach after he dies in hospital

A popular former rugby coach in the Capital has died.
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A popular former rugby coach in the Capital has died.

Jim Reilly, former head coach and director of rugby for the Caledonian Thebans, died at the Western General hospital this afternoon.

Tributes have since poured in from members of the club and those that new him.

Jim Reilly, former head coach and director of rugby for the Caledonian Thebans, died in the Western General hospital this afternoon.Jim Reilly, former head coach and director of rugby for the Caledonian Thebans, died in the Western General hospital this afternoon.
Jim Reilly, former head coach and director of rugby for the Caledonian Thebans, died in the Western General hospital this afternoon.
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In a heartfelt tribute those at the Caledonian Thebans said: “We regret to announce this afternoon that the Club's director of rugby and life member Jim Reilly passed away in the care of the amazing people who made him as comfortable as they could.

“Jim’s life was rugby; the club, the game and most importantly the community it creates.

“Jim was at the heart of the Caledonian Thebans and he will be missed.

“We are heartbroken. We have truly lost one of the most kind-hearted and generous people we will ever know.”

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The Club announced following the end of the lockdown restrictions it will celebrate Jim’s life.

“Our support, love and care is with Jim’s children and his wife, our fixtures secretary, Karen.

“Rest well Jimmy.”

Others have since taken to the Club’s Facebook page to send tributes to popular rugby director.

Scott Mac said: “On behalf of Dunfermline RFC Knights, we would like to extend our deepest condolences on the loss of Jimmy, you are all in our thoughts and prayers at this difficult time.

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“Sending all our love to Karen and the children, may Jim rest in peace.”

Friend Grant McLeod posted: “Myself, Elaine, Skye and Courtney are very saddened to hear about Jimmy passing away.

“We give our condolences to Karen, all their family and friends.

“You will always be remembered Jimmy, you were a true gentleman and we were really lucky to have met you.

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“You welcomed us when we joined wandies as if we were family which is how we feel about you, you are apart of our rugby family

“RIP my friend.”

Other rugby clubs from around the UK sent their condolences to Jim’s family.

The Leeds Hunters RUFC said: “All of the Hunters send our love and sympathies to all of the Thebans, Karen and Jim’s family and friends.”

Birmingham Bulls RFC also said it was sorry to hear of Jim’s death and past on its condolences to his family.

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