A pregnant Scots mum has paid tribute to her ‘selfless’ husband who died just over two weeks after he was diagnosed with cancer.
Phil Hawthorne, a youth worker at Ayr's Room Sixty, was diagnosed with bowel cancer after experiencing back pain in recent months.
The 36-year-old was given the devastating news at the Royal Alexandra Hospital in Paisley, Renfrewshire just 10 days before Christmas, on December 15, 2021.
Tragically, Phil’s cancer was too advanced and doctors were unable to treat him.
Phil, who married his sweetheart Ruth just under five years ago, died just over two weeks after his diagnosis, on December 30.
Pregnant wife Ruth, who is also mum to their two-year-old son Lewis, is expecting their daughter in March.
Speaking to the Daily Record, the 35-year-old said of her husband’s passing: “There was peace there, I think the cancer was just too far along for us to even think about him being on earth, it was just better for him to go."
And in a direct appeal to all those who knew Phil at Room Sixty, she added: “I’d encourage you to still share your memories of Phil. Keep talking about your feelings and questions to the volunteers.
"I know you’ll miss him but he’s now gone to a better place.”
A fundraiser has now been launched in Phil’s memory for Room Sixty, a youth initiative with Newton Wallacetown Church of Scotland in Ayr.
Phil, who excelled at rugby, had been a youth worker there since 2014 and was passionate about helping others.
Ruth explains Phil, who suffered from ulcerative colitis, had gotten a new lease of life in 2013 when he had a stoma bag fitted.
She says he was determined to 'give back'.
“He was so selfless," she said. "He had a special gift of speaking to people, young and old. He would just make you feel like you were so important, which was such a special gift to have.
“To some people, being a youth worker is just a job but he gave it his all. It was part of his life, just to help people.
“That shows because there were so many tributes, it shows the type of person he was."
The money raised will go back into funding the work Phil was passionate about. Room Sixty also hopes to set up a yearly award for one child in memory of the much-loved dad.
Ruth added: "He was just an amazing guy.
"He was a big brother for many of the children, any of the decisions they had to make, he would be there for them.
"He will be so missed, especially for the kids down in Room Sixty."
In a tribute following Phil's passing, Room Sixty said on social media: "We are all shocked and saddened to hear today of the passing of our Youth Worker Phil after a short illness.
"Our thoughts and especially our prayers are with his wife Ruth, wee Lewis and their families."
Igna Notreknip said: “So saddened to hear this news. Phil was such an amazing and kind hearted man. My thoughts are with his family and all those who knew him and loved him.”
Toni Agnew added: “Phil was an amazing person. Kids loved him, prayers are with his family at this sad time.”
“Devastating news. The world is a poorer place with this amazing man in it. My thoughts are with his family, friends and those undoubtedly affected by his loss," commented Nicola McGarry.
Steven Mackie said: “I’m absolutely heartbroken. I honestly have never met a greater guy than Phil.
"He will always be remembered, He was a brilliant guy to everyone, and an even more brilliant friend.”
And staff at Newton Primary School also left a touching message which read: “Forever part of our family at Newton Primary School. We are thankful for everything this kind man has done for our school and our children.
“We have some of the most special memories with him from singing at his wedding, scripture union lunch clubs, days out, trips away and filming and editing our school shows – always with a smile and a gentle word of encouragement.”
Phil was buried at Neilston Cemetery, East Renfrewshire on Friday, followed by a celebration of his life at the Normandy Hotel, Renfrew. You can donate to the fundraiser here
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