The community of Armagh is in mourning after the sudden death of former All-Ireland winning Armagh LGFA star Laura McGibbon (née Brown) on December 30, 2025. McGibbon, a prominent figure in women’s Gaelic football, is remembered not only for her exceptional talent on the field but also for her warmth and kindness off it.
Legacy of a Sporting Icon
Laura McGibbon, a resident of Lurgan, was a celebrated player in the history of Armagh ladies football. She achieved significant success with her club, Clann Éireann, and was instrumental in Armagh’s triumph in the All-Ireland Championship in 2012. During that championship season, she earned accolades as Player of the Match in both the Ulster final and the All-Ireland final. Her outstanding performance also led to her nomination for an All-Star award that same year.
McGibbon leaves behind her husband, Martin McGibbon, and their two daughters, Eirinn and Maeva. The Armagh LGFA expressed their sorrow in a heartfelt statement, describing her as “a true legend of the game.” They highlighted her fierce dedication on the pitch paired with a gentle spirit that endeared her to teammates and friends alike.
According to the statement, “Laura’s legacy will live on through the memories she created, the battles she fought in orange and white, and the love she gave so freely to everyone around her.”
Community Tributes and Support
The news of McGibbon’s passing has prompted an outpouring of tributes from friends, family, and the wider sporting community. Her club, Clann Éireann GAC, extended their deepest sympathies to the McGibbon and Brown families during this difficult time. They described her as a “loving wife” and “mother,” acknowledging her invaluable contributions to the club as a player, coach, and staff member.
The Carrickdale Hotel, long-time sponsors of the Armagh LGFA, also shared their condolences, noting McGibbon’s exceptional talent and dedication to her county. Their tribute emphasized the profound impact she had on those who knew her, stating, “May she rest in peace.”
Social media has been flooded with heartfelt messages from those who knew McGibbon. One tribute poignantly reflected on her influence, stating, “Everyone you ever spoke to walked away happier having done so because you had a special gift of lifting people’s hearts.” Another admirer remembered her as “a beautiful girl inside and out,” underscoring the lasting impression she left on the hearts of many.
Laura McGibbon’s funeral mass is scheduled for January 2, 2026, at 13:00 at St Peter’s Church. As the community comes together to remember her life and legacy, it is clear that her spirit will continue to inspire those she touched both on and off the field.
