The funeral of Paul Ferris, the Glasgow gangland enforcer turned author who died aged 62 on October 6, is taking place at Daldowie Crematorium in Uddingston, near Glasgow today (October 19).
Ferris, from Blackhill in Glasgow, was originally a feared enforcer for Glasgow crime boss and godfather Arthur Thompson Snr, collecting debts on his behalf. He was put on trial accused of the murder of Arthur Thompson Jnr in 1992, who was shot dead outside his home in Provanmill, Glasgow, and was cleared after a 54-day case. Six years later, Ferris was jailed for a decade - later reduced to seven - at the Old Bailey in London over conspiracy to sell or transfer prohibited weapons, deal in firearms, and possess explosives. He claimed to have gone completely straight following his prison release.
Family urges donations to See The Invisibles
The Ferris family are inviting people to support the See The Invisibles charity. In a statement released ahead of the service, Ferris' loved ones asked those who wish to pay respects to consider a "gesture of kindness" that could "make a real difference to the lives of others".
The statement was released by Glasgow street photographer and family friend Brian Anderson on his Naked City Facebook Page. It read: "As family and friends prepare to say their final goodbyes, they are asking those who wish to pay their respects to consider a gesture of kindness that could make a real difference to the lives of others."
The family has chosen to encourage donations to The Invisibles, also known as See The Invisibles, an independent group whose volunteers work to support some of Glasgow's most vulnerable people. Through regular outreach in Glasgow city centre, the group provides hot food, warm drinks, clothing, toiletries and other essential supplies to people sleeping rough and those experiencing financial hardship.
Underworld figures expected to attend
A family friend told the Record: "A large turnout is expected for Paul's funeral. Despite his notoriety and colourful past he was loved by his family. He was also a loyal and faithful friend. We are not expecting any trouble but it will be interesting to see who is there on the day."
The 62-year-old died at 9.10am on Tuesday, October 6, at University Hospital Ayr after having been admitted to hospital two days earlier. His cause of death was listed as "Multiple Organ Failure (Cardiovascular, Liver and Respiratory)" and "Decompensated alcoholic liver disease" in official records. His liver was described as at a critical stage of alcohol-related cirrhosis prior to his passing, meaning it could no longer function and could lead to death within weeks.
The Glasgow City Council-managed crematorium is the same place where his sworn enemy crime boss Tam "The Licensee" McGraw was laid to rest following his death 19 years ago. The funeral service is due to take place today, with mourners asked to honour Ferris' memory by helping homeless people in Glasgow.
