2 weeks Ago
THE funeral of a "gentle giant of a man" who had been involved in Llandudno Rugby Club since he was a teenager will take place today (Wednesday, April 16). Jason Roberts, of Llandudno, who had been with partner Heather for 30 years and had daughter Elin, 15, died aged 54 following a battle with cancer. He died at St David's Hospice in Llandudno on Sunday, March 23.
Jason, who had siblings Carl and sister Karen and mum Brenda, was a former player and captain of Llandudno Rugby Club. He later went into coaching. He was "immensely proud" to become head coach at Llandudno before becoming part of the coaching team at Rygbi Gogledd Cymru (RGC).
He was also involved with Llandudno Cricket Club where he passed on his knowledge. From the age of 16/17, Jason became involved with Llandudno Rugby Club. Firstly, as a player, he played Loosehead Prop and played for the youth team until he was old enough (aged 18) to play in the main for the 1st XV during the season 1988/89.
From then on in he continued to play week in week out, unless he was injured, right through to around 2008/09. Heather said: "His proudest achievement was becoming Captain between 1999 and 2001 during which time the club won back to back North Wales Cup wins firstly against Wrexham Northern Counties (who were in a division several divisions above them) in 2000 and then again in 2001 against Rhyl. "From his early days of playing he would help out as and required with the junior section through coaching teams.
"Having been relegated from Division 1 North to Division 2 North in 2012 Jason took over as Head Coach (Chief Goat) for the season 2013/14 and that season the Club was not only Division Champions and promoted back to Division One but also won the North Wales Division 2 Cup competition and got through to the semi final of the WRU National Bowl Competition. "Back in Division 1 North the next two seasons as Head Coach saw the team finish 5th and 4th in the league respectively. "He continued to help with ad hoc coaching within Llandudno RUFC throughout his life.
" Heather described her partner as a "gentle giant of a man who would do anything for anyone". She said: He was a gentleman to all that he met but also had a wicked and dry sense of humour. "He was not only a loving partner for 30 years but also my best friend and my rock who supported me.
Even if he did go out of his way to wind me up at times." He was described as a "doting father" to Elin and encouraged her to do her "best" in all that she took part in. Llandudno Rugby Club described Jason as "a legend" in Llandudno Rugby Club and big influence in RGC.
In statement, the club said: "[Our] thoughts go out to Heather and Elin and all the family. Our club stalwart 'Big Jay Roberts' lost his brave fight and sadly passed away. A Legend in Llandudno Rugby Club and big influence in RGC.
"Rest easy big man. Rest in peace." RGC - Rygbi Gogledd Cymru said in tribute to Jason: "He will be fondly remembered by all at RGC, from his time with the Age Grade and Senior sides.
"He played a huge part in developing so many current and past players as a coach, and was a great member of the North Wales rugby community. "Thoughts are with family and friends." A full tribute to Jason can be found .
The Celebration of Jason’s Life today will take place at 2.45pm at Colwyn Bay Crematorium. Full details, as well as the webcast login for those unable to attend in person, can be found .
The family have asked those attending to wear something they feel comfortable in. This can include a rugby or cricket top. After the service family and friends will go back to Llandudno Rugby Club to raise a glass and celebrate Jason’s life further.
Donations in memory of Jason can be made towards St David’s Hospice and Alaw Ward, Ysbyty Gwynedd via Awyr Las..
