Gary Mace

Memories and Tributes

A versatile and selfless back whose natural playmaking ability allowed him to excel in any jersey, bridging the gap between Gloucester’s elite and the grassroots success of Matson.

It is sad to report the death of Gary Mace. Gary was a very talented scrum-half, who also played at centre or fly-half. His preferred position was scrum-half, but he was singularly unlucky in that his Gloucester career corresponded with that of Mickey Booth, and later John Spalding. In other words, Gloucester had three outstanding scrum-halves at the same time.

Gary played for Spartans before, at the age of 17, he made his first Gloucester appearance on 11 October 1958 against Old Blues. His opportunity came because Booth was playing for Gloucestershire that day. Thus, the pattern was set, and Gary would play when Booth was not available. It meant that he had to play at fly-half or centre to get regular first fifteen opportunities.

In October 1959, Gloucester played Coventry at Kingsholm missing six players who were appearing for the county. At this time Coventry were the premier English team, and were at full strength. Gary was at scrum-half for this game partnering Terry Hopson. The team played magnificently and won the game 20-9.

In later seasons Gary made more appearances at centre. In 1967 he left Kingsholm to play for Matson (although he still played the odd game for Gloucester), and captained them to North Gloucester Combination Senior Cup triumphs in 1969 and 1972

Between 1958 and 1973 Gary played 103 times for Gloucester, scoring 15 tries. He also kicked two drop goals.

Word from Chris Collier, Gloucester Rugby Heritage.

Life Timeline

Born in Gloucester. He was the grandson of the legendary John William "Bill" Dix, an outside-half who played 243 games for Gloucester between 1907 and 1923.

1941: Born
Began his rugby journey with Spartans RFC, a club known for producing hard-nosed Gloucester talent.

1952: Rugby Journey Begins
Made his senior debut for Gloucester RFC against Old Blues at just 17 years old. He was called up to cover for Mickey Booth, who was away on county duty.

1958: Gloucester Senior Debut
Delivered a career-defining performance at scrum-half, partnering with Terry Hopson to orchestrate a 20–9 victory over a "full-strength" Coventry side, which at the time was the premier team in England.

1959: Standout Coventry Performance
Due to the simultaneous presence of legends Mickey Booth and John Spalding, Gary frequently transitioned to fly-half and centre to ensure he could contribute to the 1st XV.

1962: Versatile First XV Role
He was noted for his "unlucky" timing—possessing the skill of a first-choice international scrum-half but often playing out of position to accommodate the club's depth.

1963: Respected Playing Style
Moved to Matson RFC, a move that allowed him to step out of the "queue" and into a senior leadership role.

1967: Move to Matson RFC
Captained Matson to victory in the North Gloucester Combination Senior Cup, a massive achievement for the club.

1969: Senior Cup Victory
Led Matson to a second Senior Cup triumph, cementing his legacy as one of the most influential captains in the club's history.

1972: Second Cup Success
Concluded his long-standing association with senior rugby, having made 103 appearances for Gloucester and scoring 15 tries.

1973: Senior Rugby Career Ends
Remained a deeply respected figure in the Gloucester community, often seen supporting local matches and maintaining his family’s multi-generational link to the club.

1980: Community Presence Continues
Passed away peacefully at home at the age of 81.

2022: Peaceful Passing
A funeral service was held at St Barnabas Church, attended by generations of players from Spartans, Matson, and Gloucester.

2022: Final Farewell