A wave of emotion has swept through the tennis world after Andy Murray’s family shared heartbreaking news about the passing of their beloved grandmother, Shirley Erskine. Described by those closest to her as someone who “always lit up every room,” her death has left the family in tears—and fans offering an outpouring of support.
In a moving family statement, relatives spoke about Shirley not just as a matriarch, but as the warm, steady presence who held everyone together. Stories poured in about her kindness, her humor, and the way she made even ordinary gatherings feel special. “She had that rare gift,” one family member shared, “of making people feel seen and welcome the moment she walked in.”
For Andy, who has often credited his family for keeping him grounded through the highs and lows of a long career, the loss is deeply personal. Friends say he’s been leaning on loved ones, taking time away from the spotlight to grieve and remember the woman who helped shape the family’s values long before trophies and titles entered the picture.
Fans were quick to respond with messages of condolence, many recalling moments when Andy spoke about the importance of his grandparents and the role they played in his upbringing. Social media filled with tributes, candles, and simple words of comfort—proof that, even in sport, the human stories matter most.
Those close to the family say Shirley’s legacy lives on in the way the Murrays support one another: quietly, loyally, and with a strong sense of togetherness. While the grief is raw, there’s also gratitude for a life remembered for warmth rather than headlines.
As one family friend put it, “She may be gone, but the light she brought into that family hasn’t gone anywhere.” And for fans watching from afar, it’s a poignant reminder that behind every public figure is a family that feels loss just like everyone else.
Tennis sensation Andy Murray is mourning the loss of his grandmother, who sadly passed away just weeks after his grandfather Roy Erskine died. Shirley Erskine, died last week according to a touching tribute posted by Andy’s cousin.
Article continues below
The actor Ailsa Erskine, posted the heartbreaking news on Instagram with a selection of 19 pictures dedicated to her ‘one of a kind’ grandmother.
The loving caption said: “We said goodbye to my sweet, amazing, hilarious and one of a kind granny last week. She lit up every room she walked into, smiled at every stranger she passed and was always guilty of having too much chatter down Dunblane High Street.
I will miss her so much but there will not be a day that goes by that I won’t think of her and take a little bit of her with me. What a life she led and I will count my lucky stars to have grown up with such a light of a woman in my life. Sleep well granny, mini, fairy b, gran gran, Shirley E, my best friend. Thanks for giving me the gift of the gab. Say hi to Grandpa for me. Love you so much.”
The comment section was full of tributes from those who knew Shirley. Elaine Ritchie said: “What a wonderful grand-daughter you are Beautiful words.”
Joanne Crawford commented: “What a lovely tribute to your gran. She was always such a lovely lady when she was interviewed about her grandsons and you xxx”
The tributes went on with Susan Gillespie writing: “So saddened to read this message – fond memories of Tennis Week in Elgin @ St.leonards hotel xx.” Jane Mccormack expressed: “So sorry to hear about your Granny and Grandpa x sending our love to you all.”
Shirley’s death follows the passing of her husband Roy Erskine, Andy’s grandfather, who died just weeks ago at age 94. Roy was a keen tennis player and also played football professionally for Hibernian, Stirling Albion and Cowdenbeath in his youth.
The news of his passing was announced by his former club Stirling Albion, who paid their respects. The tribute read: “Everyone at Stirling Albion was saddened to learn of the passing of former player, Roy Erskine, on the 19th of January 2026.
“Roy joined Albion from Troon Juniors in August 1954 and played with the club for two seasons before leaving for Cowdenbeath in In recent years, Roy had been a regular with his daughter Judy at club hospitality where he enjoyed speaking with supporters and chatting about his time at the club.
“He was particularly pleased to help celebrate the club’s League 2 championship win in 2022-23. A well-known and popular figure in Dunblane where he spent many years as an Optician, he will be sorely missed.”
The pair were big tennis fans often seen supporting both of their grandsons courtside.
