02-05-2025
‘A remarkable individual': Tributes paid following death of NI Commonwealth Games athlete and school governor
Ian Corry (66) passed away peacefully at his home on Tuesday.
As well as his role as a surgeon who specialised in sports medicine and knee surgery, Mr Corry had served on the Board of Governors at The Royal Belfast Academical Institution (RBAI) for more than 20 years.
He was a gifted swimmer who represented Northern Ireland at the 1974 Commonwealth Games in New Zealand at the age of just 14. Four years later, he then reached the 200m medley final at the 1978 games in Edmonton, Canada.
"He leaves a tremendous legacy and will be sorely missed' – Janet Williamson, Principal, RBAI
The north Belfast man went on to study medicine at the University of Edinburgh and completed overseas fellowships in New Zealand and Australia.
A former RBAI pupil, he joined the Board of Governors in March 2004.
School principal Janet Williamson said: 'Ian, as a colleague and friend, embodied the values of RBAI and was an excellent role model. His integrity, commitment and leadership were to his credit and to the benefit of the school.
'To have competed in the Commonwealth Games at such a young age is an inspiration for current and future pupils. He leaves a tremendous legacy and will be sorely missed.'
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Chair of the Board of Governors Michael Howard said Mr Corry was 'an outstanding Instonian'.
"He was deeply committed to ensure that RBAI remains at the forefront of education in Northern Ireland.
'Ian was involved in the establishment of the RBAI Foundation in 2013 and chaired the Foundation Committee for the past ten years. Under his leadership, more than £4.5million was raised for pupil bursaries and the development of the School estate.
"Our thoughts are with his wife Janet, children Shona, Malcolm and Eve, and wider family at this time.'
Mr Corry also served as honorary orthopaedic surgeon to Ulster Rugby for more than two decades. The club paid their own online tribute following his death.
"We are deeply saddened by the passing of Mr. Ian Corry, who served as Honorary Orthopaedic Surgeon to Ulster Rugby for over 20 years,' they said.
'Over the years, he treated many players - all fortunate to have received his expert care. He will be truly missed. Our heartfelt condolences go out to his family and loved ones during this difficult time.'
A death notice said a service of thanksgiving would take place for Mr Corry at Stormont Presbyterian Church at 2pm on Thursday May 8.
