Mother-of-two Laura McGibbon was a member of the Armagh ladies panel who won the 2012 All-Ireland intermediate football championship.
Her performances throughout that historic season earned her an All-Star nomination, as well as Player of the Match awards in both the Ulster and All-Ireland finals.
Armagh LGFA paid tribute to their championship-winning full back, describing her as a “true legend of the game”.
“All of us in Armagh LGFA are heartbroken by the sudden passing of our former All-Ireland winning player, Laura McGibbon (née Brown),” said a spokesperson.
“A true legend of the game, Laura was Player of the Match in both the Ulster Final and the All-Ireland Final in 2012 as well as being nominated for an All Star.
The full back was awarded Player of the Match in both the Ulster and All-Ireland finals in 2012
“A ferocious full-back on the pitch, yet off it she had the warmest heart – always there for her teammates, always smiling, a smile that could light up any room.
“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
“We extend our deepest sympathies to her beloved husband Marty, her precious wee girls Eirinn and Maeva, her extended family, friends, her teammates in Clann Éireann, and all who were lucky enough to know her.
“Ar dheis Dé go raibh a hanam.”
Laura’s club, Clann Éireann, Lurgan, has also extended its condolences to her family.
“Clann Éireann Committee would like to extend our deepest sympathies to the McGibbon/Brown families on the passing of our esteemed member, former player, coach and current staff member Laura, loving wife of Martin and loving mother to Eirinn and Maeva,” said a spokesperson.
“Our sincere condolences to their entire family circle at this very sad time.”
Neighbouring club St Paul’s GFC also paid its own tribute to Laura, saying they were “deeply saddened” to learn of her death.
Laura McGibbon, who passed away this week
News Catch Up – Wednesday 31 December
The Carrickdale Hotel – long-time sponsors of Armagh LGFA – took to social media to post its own tribute.
“The McParland Family, Management and Staff of the Carrickdale Hotel & Spa are deeply saddened to hear of the sudden passing of Laura McGibbon (nee Brown),” said a spokesperson.
“Laura was an exceptional talent, proudly representing her county for many years.
“As long-time sponsors of Armagh LGFA , we extend our heartfelt condolences to Laura’s husband, children, extended family and friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing her. May she rest in peace.”
A death notice for Mrs McGibbon has confirmed her funeral will take place on Friday afternoon, with her remains leaving her home in Lurgan at 12pm.
Requiem mass will be held at 1pm at St Peter’s Church, with burial to follow in St Colman’s Cemetery.
“Very deeply regretted by her loving husband, children, and entire family circle,” added the notice.