Rathfriland Football Club confirmed the death of its president John Annett on March 3. The club postponed its senior match against Knockbreda and reserves game against Valley Rangers that evening.

Annett lived in Rathfriland and faced a brain tumour diagnosed in 2023. He had surgery on January 3, 2024, after a prayer meeting at First Rathfriland Presbyterian Church the previous day. Surgeons removed up to 40 percent of the tumour, but the diagnosis remained unchanged.

Annett's family thanked the community for raising £17,219 for Brainwaves NI, a brain tumour research and support group. He supported the club's youth players, and his own children and grandchildren took part in its activities.

He was husband to Joanne and father to Joel, Hayley, Zach, Ellie and Abbie. Annett was grandfather to James, Isabella, Oliver, Jude and Ezra.

Local clubs including Banbridge Town FC, Valley Rangers FC, Tandragee Rovers and Dollingstown FC offered condolences. Stephen McKeown described Annett as a gentleman who prioritised others' well-being amid his health challenges.

A funeral service takes place on March 6 at 2 p.m. in First Rathfriland Presbyterian Church. Donations are requested for Evora Hospice Care and Cancer Fund for Children.