Tributes paid to legendary Rainey RFC stalwart and former Ulster Rugby President Graffin Parke

Rainey RFC is united in mourning following the loss of Graffin Parke, a transformative figure whose 57-year devotion to the club helped define the landscape of rugby in Mid-Ulster and beyond. Graffin passed away peacefully at Antrim Area Hospital on Wednesday, February 4 2026, leaving behind a legacy as one of the most significant and beloved "Rainey Men" in the club’s history.

Since arriving in Draperstown and joining Rainey RFC in 1969, Graffin became an indispensable "ever-present" within the club. His leadership spanned nearly every conceivable role, serving as President on multiple occasions, Chairman, and a long-standing member of the club committee. He was a pivotal driver of the club’s physical evolution, instrumental in the move from a portacabin clubhouse on Tobermore Road to Garden Street, and later to the current home at Hatrick Park in the mid-1990s.

Beyond Magherafelt, Graffin’s immense service to the sport was recognised at the highest provincial level. In 2016/17, he made history as the first Rainey RFC member to serve as President of the Ulster Branch of the IRFU. Ulster Rugby has expressed its sincere condolences, describing him as a "lifelong servant of the game" who made an "outstanding contribution to rugby in Ulster".

Graffin’s legacy is defined by his unique ability to make every player - from first-time jersey wearers to decades-long veterans - feel like an essential part of the Rainey family. He remained a driving force behind the club’s current renovations and was a familiar, welcoming face at major events, including the annual golf classic at Moyola Golf Club.

Rainey RFC express its condolences, saying: “For generations of players and members, Graffin was always there. A familiar face on match days, a welcoming presence around the club, someone who always had time for a word, a story (of which there plenty) or most importantly, a quiet piece of advice.

“We wouldn’t be where we are today as a club, if it wasn’t for Graffin.

“We were all tremendously proud of him as he became the first ever Rainey member to hold that prestigious office. He carried that honour with humility and pride and was a fantastic ambassador for Ulster and Rainey Rugby during his year in office. He was ably supported during this year (and always) by his wife Lexi.

“Graffin will be missed more than words can say. The conversations, the presence, the sense that Rainey was always in safe hands when he was around.

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“His legacy lives on in the club he loved and in the many people whose lives he touched through rugby and friendship.”
Graffin is survived by his wife Lexi, sons Andrew, Gareth and Barry, father-in-law of Julie, Claire and Eimear, proud grandfather of Sam, Carter and Evie and brother of William and Joe.

The family home remains strictly private.

Funeral arrangements will be announced in due course.