Curran carved a successful career in the Illawarra region as a rugged forward after coming to Thirroul from Temora in 1958, ultimately playing 120 first grade games with Thirroul before retiring in 1966.

Curran also had a decorated representative career after playing for Country Seconds on the day he turned 18 in 1952, while he also represented Riverina against the American All Stars and played for Southern Division against Great Britain in 1958 and New Zealand in 1959.

Curran continued to contribute to the game post-retirement after being appointed as a selector for the Country Rugby League and NSWRL.

The Butchers paid tribute to Curran on social media on Monday, while Illawarra league godfather, and current NSWRL president, Bob Millward also lent his voice.

"We've lost a great rugby league person with the passing of Ted Curran," Millward said.

"He was a long-term Country selector and served on the NSW selection committee where he did his state proud. Ted was a great Rugby League man, both on and off the field, and never stopped giving to the game.

"The NSWRL would like to pass on our sincere condolences to his family and friends."

Edward John 'Teddy' Curran was a loving husband to Mary (dec.) and is survived by his daughters and son in laws Sandra and Aiden Beath and Toni and Phil Ostwald.

A funeral service will held in the Parsons Funeral Home chapel at Bulli on Tuesday at 2pm, with all friends and relatives invited to attend.