Tributes have been paid to a Tartan Army foot soldier after he passed away following a short battle with cancer.
Billy Gilfillan – who was known as Gil or Billy G – died aged 63 following the “bravely fought illness” on Sunday, January 5. Billy, from Cardenden in Fife, was a proud member of the ABCD Tartan Army and travelled across land and sea following the Scottish national team.
He was well-known from his football travels and fellow supporters have been left heartbroken following the devastating news.
Paying tribute in a post on Facebook, Colin Stevenson said: “It’s with great sadness that I write this – with permission off the family, but last week after a short battle with the b****d that is cancer we at the ABCD tartan army lost one of our footsoldiers Billy Gilfillan (Gil or Billy G).
“Some of you may have crossed paths with him over the years as he took in many an away trip, Hampden, Starks Park and most fittingly by finally seeing his Scotland at the Euro’s in the summer.”
Tributes flooded in from dozens of other fans following the news. David Shand said: “One of the best guys I’ll ever have the pleasure of being in the company of. Will be missed by all that knew him.” Ross Hunter said: “One of our own, legend of a man.”
Roddy Macdonald said: “RIP Gill. One of a kind!” Scott Philp added: “Condolences – he wears the same tartan as me and I did T in the Park 19 years in a row. Had a few drunken chats on TA away days.”
Kay John said: “Rip Billy. What a wonderful tribute for a wonderful man.” Martin Webster added: “Lovely guy stayed in the same hotel as us in Germany. RIP.”
Billy’s funeral will take place at Kirkcaldy Crematorium on Wednesday, January 22, with relatives and friends invited to join in a celebration of his life.
John Gilfillan Funeral Directors said: “Peacefully, at Victoria Hospital Kirkcaldy on Sunday January 5, 2025 following a short and bravely fought illness, Billy (Gil) Gilfillan, aged 63 years of Cardenden.
“Beloved son of Helen and late John, loving brother to James and Carole, much loved uncle, great uncle, cousin, brother-in-law and very good friend to many; Billy was a loveable character, fitba daft, a loyal member of the ‘ABCD Tartan Army,’ and will be sadly missed.
“Funeral service will take place at Kirkcaldy Crematorium on Wednesday January 22 at 12.45pm, to which all relatives and friends are respectfully invited; family flowers only please, however, donations if so desired will be gratefully received on leaving the crematorium in aid of Cancer Research.”
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