Vale Phillip John (Jack) Devery

Jack Devery, who died on 1 April 2015 aged 95 years, was South Sydney District Rugby League Football Club’s oldest 1st grade player.

Jack played half back for Sydney University Rugby Union Club before being tempted to change codes and play rugby league by South Sydney District Club in 1947 (aged 25 years).

Jack played 11 first grade games with South Sydney scoring 2 tries. In the 4th round of the 1947 competition against the Balmain Tigers at Leichhardt Oval, Jack played five-eight against his younger brother Pat Devery. Pat also played for NSW, Australia and UK Club Huddersfield.

Jack was accomplished off the rugby league field. Upon finishing his University studies, he became a university lecturer and was a respected oceanographer.

Jack is survived by his loving wife of 66 years, Dorothy, and family who will miss him dearly along with his many friends in the Rugby League Community especially in Rabbitoh territory.