Ray Gravell — born on 12 September 1951 and sadly passed on 31 October 2007 — was more than a rugby player; he was the beating heart of Welsh passion, pride, and community. A Llanelli man through and through, he embodied the scarlet spirit of Stradey Park and carried that fire into every jersey he wore.
As a stalwart of Llanelli RFC, a proud Welsh international with 23 caps, and a British & Irish Lion, Gravell’s career was built not only on strength and skill, but on unyielding commitment, courage, and love for his country. His sudden passing at the age of 56, while on holiday in Spain, sent shockwaves throughout Wales and beyond.
So beloved was “Grav,” that his farewell became a celebration of all he stood for — a national outpouring of affection that reflected the man himself: open, generous, and profoundly Welsh.
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The Public Farewell
On 15 November 2007, the gates of Stradey Park opened one final time for Ray Gravell. Fittingly, his send-off took place at the ground where he had given his heart and soul to the game.
There were no invitations, no divisions — only people united in grief and gratitude. Around 10,000 mourners gathered: family, teammates, dignitaries, and fans from every corner of Wales.
As his coffin, draped in the Welsh flag, was carried onto the pitch by six Llanelli players — past and present — a hush fell over the ground. The scoreboard was set to read “Llanelli 9 – New Zealand 3”, recalling that famous 1972 victory over the All Blacks, a triumph in which Gravell had played his proud part.
Voices rose in tribute in both Welsh and English, with heartfelt words from Wales’s First Minister Rhodri Morgan and others who knew him best. Music filled the air — the Llanelli Male Voice Choir and the Burry Port Brass Band offering moving renditions that echoed across Stradey’s stands.
After the public service, a private ceremony was held at Llanelli Crematorium, where family and close friends bid a quieter farewell.
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A Nation’s Farewell
Stradey Park was more than a venue; it was sacred ground for Gravell, the stage upon which his spirit shone brightest. Choosing it for his final farewell was deeply symbolic — a full circle from the roars of victory to the silence of remembrance.
In scale and sentiment, the funeral felt almost like a state occasion. It captured not only the loss of a rugby hero, but the passing of a man who represented something far larger: the heart of a nation.
Through song, sport, and shared emotion, Wales came together — the communities of west Wales, the rugby fraternity, and those far beyond — to honour one of their own. The atmosphere blended sorrow with pride, humility with celebration.
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Legacy
Ray Gravell’s public funeral at Stradey Park was a moment that transcended rugby. It was a testament to how one man’s warmth, humour, and love of Wales could touch so many lives.
Thousands stood shoulder to shoulder beneath the autumn sky, united by memories of his voice, his laugh, his passion.
That day, Stradey Park was not just a stadium — it was the heart of a nation beating in unison for “Grav.” His legacy endures in every chant, every song, and every young player who dreams of wearing the red jersey with the same pride he did.
“Yma o Hyd” — still here. So too is the spirit of Ray Gravell.