Paul Lennon, the founder of the Thai Tims and the Good Child Foundation, has died after battling an aggressive brain tumour. He was diagnosed with Grade 4 Glioblastoma (IDH-wildtype), a condition that typically gives patients a life expectancy of between 12 and 18 months.
The 60-year-old had been receiving palliative care after undergoing major brain surgery. The Hoops-daft dad had been left unable to communicate following his operation.
Family announces passing
A statement on Paul's Facebook page confirmed the news of his passing on Thursday morning. The post read: "Paul Lennon has departed on a journey to the next realm. May all the goodness he performed protect him and guide him to a peaceful destination. You will forever remain in our memories."
Hundreds of tributes have poured in for the kind-hearted dad who devoted his life to helping children with Down’s syndrome in rural Thailand with his wife Pun for more than 20 years.
Tributes pour in
Roddy MacKay expressed his condolences, writing: "Sad to be reading this. RIP Paul you made such a difference to so many people across this planet. Deepest condolences to Pun and all the family at such an awful time, your legacy will live on forever with the Thai Tims, a truly special human being."
Ian O'Keefe added: "Rest in peace, my friend and my brother. A great companion over many years and adventures. You are going to a better place, where all the love you showed will be rewarded. My heart goes out to your family, who will be feeling your loss the most."
Helen Barry shared: "Dearest Paul, you fought until the bitter end. May you be reunited with your loved ones gone before you, especially your Mum Margo, Dad Stevie, and sister Marian. Sending love and prayers to your family, to Pun, Berni and Steven, thank you for looking after Paul in this most difficult time. He really had the best people around him to take care of him. To his sister Stephanie, James, Ellie and Joe, my heart breaks for you all. You’re all in my thoughts and prayers at this time. Paul, may you rest in eternal peace, your work is done here."
Hector Mackay commented: "Very sad to be reading this, RIP Paul, had the privilege of meeting Paul, Pun and the Bhoys when I visited the school a few years ago, lovely family, and Paul you were a true gentleman."
Bruce Prenter added: "You will be sorely missed Paul. Although I only knew you for a few short years your caring, honesty and determination to do the 'next right thing' resonated and inspired me and many others. God bless."
Legacy of the Thai Tims
Paul and Pun started the Good Child Foundation after their son, Berni, was born with Down's Syndrome. Paul taught children English by using Celtic songs, ensuring those excluded from mainstream education were given opportunities. Videos of them singing Hoops favourites attracted millions of views online, making the youngsters, known as the Thai Tims, a viral sensation. They performed at Celtic Park and appeared on Sky TV's Soccer AM.
Since his diagnosis, the Celtic support rallied around Paul and his family. Bangkok CSC donated thousands of pounds to fund a professional physical therapist for him. Last week, Hoops captain Callum McGregor wrote a heartfelt letter to Paul on behalf of Celtic. It read in part: "We send our best regards and let you know that you are very much in our thoughts. We know that you are having a difficult time, but we hope you can find strength. We hope you can find moments of peace and comfort amidst the difficult days. Facing these challenges takes real courage and I know you will lean on the love and support around you during this time. We are all with you. With warmest wishes, Callum McGregor."
Paul also worked to keep the memory of murdered Blantyre teenager Reamonn Gormley alive. The teenager volunteered at the Good Child Foundation in Thailand during a gap year in 2010 but was stabbed to death in an attempted street robbery the following year. Paul formed a partnership with Blantyre Soccer Academy in his memory and organised tributes involving the Thai Tims kids. The children recorded a charity version of Just Can't Get Enough in his honour, helping raise money for the Good Child Foundation and knife crime charity Crimestoppers. Paul also oversaw the construction of the Reamonn Gormley Memorial Hall at the charity's school in Chanthaburi Province. The pavilion, painted in Celtic's green and white colours, provides a place where children can learn, perform music and take part in activities. His efforts are supported by Blantyre Soccer Academy, who donate thousands of pounds raised during their annual Reamonn Gormley Memorial Soccer Festival and Sportsman’s Dinner, held every May and June.
