Fans gathered outside Celtic Park to pay their respects to former footballer Tommy Gemmell, who passed away last week at the age of 73. The funeral service highlighted Gemmell’s legacy as a “Lisbon Lion,” a term used to honor the Celtic team that won the European Cup in 1967. He also earned 18 caps for the Scotland national team during his career .
The funeral procession commenced from Celtic Park around 11:30 AM, making its way down the Celtic Way and onto London Road, before heading towards Daldowie Crematorium for the service. This route was significant, as it symbolized Gemmell’s deep connection with the club and its supporters .
During the service, tributes poured in celebrating his contributions to football and his inspirational character. Fans, players, and former teammates all expressed their admiration for Gemmell, emphasizing how he influenced many both on and off the pitch .
This gathering is just one example of how the Celtic community has come together to honor one of its legends, reflecting the strong bond between the club and its supporters. For more detailed coverage, you can check the full articles on various sports news platforms.
The funeral also saw the presence of other notable former Celtic players, such as Danny McGrain, Andy Walker, Davie Provan, and Frank McGarvey. Current Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers and former manager David Hay were in attendance as well, showcasing the impact Gemmell had on the club’s history .
Rangers managing director Stewart Robertson also paid his respects by attending on behalf of the Ibrox club, further highlighting the significance of Gemmell’s contributions to Scottish football as a whole .
The ceremony underscored the deep connection Gemmell had with the Celtic community and the respect he earned across the football landscape, cementing his legacy as a true icon of the sport. For more details on the funeral and tributes, you can read further on various sports news platforms .
The funeral cortege arrives at Celtic Park
Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers at the service
Lisbon Lions Bobby Lennox, Jim Craig, Bertie Auld and John Clark
During the funeral service for Tommy Gemmell, former teammate Jim Craig delivered a poignant tribute, highlighting Gemmell’s strength and resilience even as his health declined in recent years. Craig recalled how Gemmell, once a powerful athlete, faced his struggles with remarkable dignity.
Choking back tears, he remarked, “That once powerful frame began to weaken and Tam was confined to his bed, a situation such a strong athlete must have found really difficult to cope with. Yet, as his strength waned, I never once heard him complain, and frankly, the way he dealt with whatever came his way was a lesson to us all.”
This heartfelt reflection not only emphasized Gemmell’s character but also illustrated the deep bond shared among the Lisbon Lions. Craig’s words resonated with those in attendance, reminding everyone of Gemmell’s inspirational spirit both on and off the pitch. The service served as a powerful testament to the legacy of a player who will forever be remembered as a key part of Celtic’s history.
For more on the tributes paid to Tommy Gemmell, you can read further details from various sports news sources covering the event.
Danny McGrain, a Parkhead hero, also paid his respects during Tommy Gemmell’s funeral, recalling their days as teammates. Jim Craig, speaking fondly of Gemmell, reflected on his colorful personality, stating, “Tam could be accused of being noisy, argumentative, flamboyant – he had the flashy suits and the car with the Colonel Bogey horn – and even cocky.”
Despite his larger-than-life persona, Craig emphasized Gemmell’s impressive contributions on the pitch, noting his exceptional scoring record for a fullback and his skill in taking penalties. Craig humorously pointed out that Gemmell’s most famous goal, the equalizer in the European Cup Final, was made easier by the “perfect pass along the 18-yard line,” suggesting that even his grandmother could have scored from that position.
These anecdotes painted a vivid picture of Gemmell as both a player and a person, reminding attendees of the joy and spirit he brought to the game and to those around him. For further details and reflections from the service, you can find more information from various sports news outlets covering the event.
John Hughes, a surviving member of the European Cup-winning squad
Ex-Celtic striker Frank McGarvey and former Scotland international Eddie Gray attended the funeral
Floral tributes have been laid outside the stadium
Former Rangers player Willie Henderson and Lisbon Lion Bobby Lennox were among the pallbearers
Ibrox legend Willie Henderson joined fellow football icons Bobby Lennox and Jim Craig at the funeral service for his great friend Tommy Gemmell. Their presence underscored the deep respect and camaraderie shared among players from rival clubs, reflecting the mutual admiration for Gemmell’s contributions to Scottish football.
Henderson, who played for Rangers during a time when Celtic and Rangers had intense rivalries, emphasized the significance of honoring a player of Gemmell’s caliber. The gathering of such prominent figures from both sides highlighted how Gemmell’s legacy transcended club loyalties, bringing together those who appreciated his talent and character.
For more details on the tributes and the funeral service, you can read about it from sources like the BBC and Sky Sports .
Tommy Gemmell’s widow Mary was greeted by family, friends and fans
Celtic chief executive Peter Lawwell
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