THE funeral of former Saints chairman and director Joe Seddon, who led the club out at Wembley in the 1978 Challenge Cup final against Leeds, will take place next week.

Joe, from Rainford, died in Whiston Hospital on Friday, December 19 at the age of 83.

The former chartered accountant worked initially for Saints' director Jim Robinson at Stanley Marsh and Company in St Helens in the seventies.

The then Saints chairman Harry Cook recognised Joe's financial capabilities and appointed him company secretary.

He later stepped up to the role of chairman in 1976 and led the team out in the defeat against Leeds at the Twin Towers.

His three-year tenure ended after the 1978-79 season, but Joe was elected chairman of the Rugby Football League in 1985-86.

Born in Peasley Cross, Joe attended Cowley School and became good friends with John Tandy, the veterinary surgeon, who lived across the road.

"Joe was a really popular man and a capable and trusted one too," recalls former journalist Denis Whittle. 

"I believe he met (his wife) Marjorie at Sutton Cricket Club, where they were both members of the tennis section." 

He married Marjorie in 1956 and they have a daughter, Helen and three grandsons.

Joe was a member of Grange Park Golf Club, chairman of St Helens Round Table, an active Rotarian,   prominent local Freemason (St George's Lodge), and valued member of Windle Bowling Club.

Yet it is for his work at the helm at the Saints which he will be always remembered for.

Close friend Glynis Clegg, wife of former chairman John, recalled his "warmth, kindness and his amazing sense of humour".

She said: "We were close friends for many years and it does seem as though a very bright light has gone out." 

Saints have sent their condolences to Joe's family. His funeral will be held at Rainford Parish Church on Monday, January 5 at 11.30am. It will then transfer to St Helens Crematorium at 12.30pm.