Gina Heslop
Rob Burrow, a beloved star player for the Leeds Rhinos and the England Rugby League team, passed away on June 2 at the age of 41 after a prolonged struggle with motor neurone disease (MND). His death shocked and saddened many, as Rob was not only a sports icon but also a cherished figure in his community.
In the days following his death, hundreds of people gathered to honor Rob and say their final goodbyes. A civil reception was held at Leeds Civic Hall to celebrate his life and achievements.
The event was organized by Abigail Marshall Katung, the Lord Mayor of Leeds, and attended by Rob’s family along with around 180 other people. Notable attendees included Jamie Jones-Buchanan, a former teammate of Rob’s, Tanya Curry, the CEO of the MND Association, and James Lewis, the leader of Leeds City Council.
Rob’s funeral procession took place on July 7, drawing hundreds of people who lined the streets to pay their respects. Many wore Leeds Rhino shirts, turning the roads into a sea of blue. Junior players from Featherstone Lions ARLFC, where Rob played junior rugby, also attended in their gear.
The procession was led by a police motorcycle, followed by the hearse carrying Rob, and five cars with his wife Lindsey and their three children, Macy, Maya, and Jackson. Rob’s sisters, Joanne Hartshorne and Claire Burnett, and his parents, Geoff and Irene, were also part of the cortege.
Rob was buried with blue cloth and white flower bouquets that spelled out “Dad,” “Bro,” and “Son.” The procession paused at the Featherstone Lions’ ground, where a book of condolences was available for people to sign.
In his final message, Rob urged people not to “waste a moment” of their lives, embodying the courage and positivity he showed throughout his illness. He said, “In a world full of adversity, we must still dare to dream.”
Rob was diagnosed with MND in 2019 and dedicated much of his time to raising awareness and funds for the cause. His wife Lindsey praised him for making the world a better place, a sentiment shared by many who knew him. In his honor, his friend Ian Flatt, who was also diagnosed with MND in 2019, is undertaking a remarkable challenge of climbing seven mountains in a wheelchair.
Rob Burrow’s legacy extends beyond his accomplishments on the rugby field. His bravery, dedication to fighting MND, and the love he inspired in others have left an indelible mark on all who knew him. His life and message continue to inspire, reminding everyone to cherish every moment and to dream despite adversity.
