Snooker community gathers to honour John Virgo
Snooker’s biggest names gathered in Sheffield today to bid farewell to John Virgo, the beloved player and commentator who passed away suddenly at his Spanish home in February at the age of 79, reports BritPanorama.
The memorial service took place at Sheffield Cathedral this afternoon, in proximity to the Crucible Theatre, where this year’s World Championship is set to begin on Saturday. It served as a fitting tribute to a man whose voice became synonymous with the sport he loved.
Virgo’s widow, Rosie Ries, attended the service alongside a remarkable turnout of snooker royalty. Fans and well-wishers also lined up outside the cathedral to listen to the service relayed through loudspeakers. The event was organized by 1997 world champion Ken Doherty and snooker’s Master of Ceremonies Rob Walker.
Gary, Virgo’s son, delivered a heartfelt eulogy that resonated with the congregation. He spoke of his father’s humble origins in Salford and his passion for Manchester United, although it was snooker that truly captured his heart. Reflecting on Virgo’s television career, Gary noted, “His gift for humour and mimicry began to shine… At his core, he only remained what he’d been from the very beginning – just a lad from Salford who loved snooker.”
The poignant eulogy inspired spontaneous applause from those present, as Brooke-Leah, Virgo’s daughter, read a moving poem incorporating her father’s famous catchphrases: “Where’s the cue ball going we heard him call with a twinkle in his eye as he loved it all.” The cathedral was filled with snooker legends, including seven-time world champion Stephen Hendry and fellow greats such as Steve Davis, Dennis Taylor, and Jimmy White.
One notable absence was Ronnie O’Sullivan, but World Seniors Snooker chairman Jason Francis provided insight into their connection. “John was like a second father to him,” he revealed, reflecting on O’Sullivan’s grief at losing Virgo.
Dennis Taylor, a long-time friend of Virgo, joined fellow Canadian legend Cliff Thorburn in paying their respects to a man who touched many lives in the sport. Ken Doherty, co-organiser of the service, described Virgo as a “wonderful character” whose voice was “synonymous with snooker.”
Walker addressed the gathering from the altar, thanking attendees: “It is absolutely incredible that so many of you have chosen to be with us here in Sheffield.” He commended Virgo’s lasting impact on the game, stating, “John’s personality and wit lit up the sport we love for more than half a century. This is our final chance to say our goodbyes properly to a man who is gone but not forgotten.”
Approximately 600 fans attended the cathedral service, followed by a reception at Sheffield Town Hall featuring drinks and canapés. Virgo’s final BBC commentary was just 17 days before his death, covering the 2026 Masters final in January.
As the snooker community reflects on its loss, it is a reminder that while the sport grows, it is the personalities like Virgo that carve out its enduring legacy, intertwining sports and human stories in an intimate tapestry of memories.
