He was widely considered one of the game’s greatest minds and helped Jack Gibson lead the Roosters and Eels to premierships in the 1970’s and 1980’s.

He was Cronulla’s CEO form 1990-91.

Sydney’s Ron Massey Cup was named in his honour in 2013 to mark his contribution to the game.

Several fellow league icons are said to have visited Massey in hospital recently, including Raiders coach Ricky Stuart, Sharks skipper Paul Gallen and Eels legend Michael Cronin.

NRL chief executive Todd Greenberg said a minute’s silence would be held ahead of both preliminary finals this weekend as a mark of respect for Massey.

“The greatest tribute I can give to Ron is that the game would not be what it is today without him,” Greenberg said.

“He was a pioneering figure and a visionary in many aspects.

“The game will certainly miss him but the legacy of what he contributed will be forever prominent.”

Massey is survived by wife Patty and two sons Luke and Paul.