The son of a Scotland fan who died after collapsing outside a pub in Boston has thanked fundraisers for raising more than £60,000 to bring his father's body home. Thomas 'Tam' Murty, 62, from Glasgow, fell ill outside The Dubliner Irish Pub in the city on Thursday, June 18, and passed away the following morning.
Life-long dream fulfilled
Murty, described as 'Tartan Army to the core,' had fulfilled his 'life-long dream' of watching Scotland play at the World Cup for the first time in nearly 30 years. He traveled to the US with thousands of other Scotland fans to support the team.
His devastated family launched a GoFundMe campaign to cover the costs of repatriating his body from the US and giving him a proper funeral. The fundraiser has raised £64,000, leaving his loved ones 'taken aback' by the generosity.
Son's heartfelt thanks
Tam's son, Gavin Murty, wrote on the fundraising page: 'Thank you doesn't feel big enough. Four days ago, we asked for help. Since then, almost 2,500 people have donated and together you've raised almost £60,000. We can hardly take it in.'
He added: 'Tomorrow is the first step towards bringing Tam home - into the care of the funeral directors, where he'll be looked after and prepared with the dignity he deserves. Over the coming days we'll be working through every arrangement, step by step. Because of your kindness, we can give Tam the send-off he truly deserves.'
Outpouring of support
Well-wishers from around the world paid tribute to Murty. One commented: 'Condolences. Didn’t know you, but I’m glad you were living your dream! You and the Tartan Army inspired Boston and numerous in America to love big.' Another wrote: 'Our deepest condolences to Tam's family, friends and the Tartan Army from northern B.C. Canada. Tam was part of an amazing movement that I believe has changed the world.'
A third added: 'Many condolences to you and your family. I'm glad he was able to visit our great city to support Scotland. Your family is welcome here anytime. RIP.'
Any funds raised beyond the repatriation and funeral costs will go to supporting Murty's family in the weeks ahead, according to the fundraiser.
