Carrickfergus Footballer Billy McCullough Dies Aged 90
Billy McCullough, a footballer born in Carrickfergus, has died at the age of 90. He passed away on March 13, 2026.
McCullough played as left-back for Arsenal and made 268 appearances for the club from 1958 to 1966. Arsenal signed him in 1958 for £5000 as the first acquisition by manager George Swindin. He earned 10 caps for Northern Ireland.
Before joining Arsenal, McCullough played for Portadown, where he debuted at age 22. He began in local junior football.
His niece Amanda Moore stated that McCullough was the last surviving sibling in his family. She noted he marked his 90th birthday last July at a golf club in Hertfordshire, joined by family members including her and her husband David, as well as former teammates and managers. Moore said he leaves a daughter named Nancy and two grandchildren, Nicholas and Zoe.
After retiring, McCullough worked as an electrical engineer for his father-in-law's business in Essex. He lived his later years in Potters Bar, Hertfordshire.
Arsenal posted a tribute on social media, expressing thoughts for his family. Portadown Football Club offered condolences to his family.