The family of Dundee schoolboy Jack Stewart have paid tribute to the six-year-old, saying he was “the light of their lives”.
Jack, a pupil at Sidlaw View Primary School, died suddenly on Sunday.
Speaking on behalf of the family, Jack’s mum Jillian said they had been left broken-hearted by the loss of their son.
She said: “Jack was the light of our lives.
“He has left all of us broken hearted.
“The years Jack gave us were so happy and special and we will miss him terribly.”
The family also thanked the Dundee community for the messages of condolences and support they have received in recent days.
Jillian said: “Although it does not ease the pain, we are overwhelmed by the good in people and wish to thank everybody for their kind messages and gestures.
“It has given us some comfort and this incredibly difficult and tragic time.”
Dundee West FC tributes
Six-year-old Jack was an avid footballer and had played for Dundee West FC since the age of three.
He was said to be a popular boy among friends and fellow players, who have been left “heartbroken” following his death.
In a post on Facebook, the club said: “All at Dundee West are devastated to learn of the sudden passing of Jack Stewart on Sunday May 7.
“Jack, aged 6, joined the club as a Wee Westies player at the age of 3.
Everyone at Dundee West has been left devastated at young Jacks sudden and untimely passing.
There will be a minutes applause at Tannadice this Saturday for a young lad that loved the club. There will be further updates on long term and short term tributes in due course.
— Dundee West FC (@DundeeWestFC) May 10, 2023
“Jack continued his football with the West through the Wee Westies and into fun fours with the 2016s age group where Jack proudly wore the number 19 shirt.
“As a mark of respect, this number 19 will be retired as a squad number by the 2016s and will remain as Jack’s number.”
The statement added: “All our thoughts are with Ian, Jillian and Jack’s younger sister Rebecca as well as the wider family.”
Dundee West has launched a fundraiser on behalf of Jack’s family.
The club is also encouraging fans to take part in a minute’s applause in the sixth minute of Dundee United’s game against Ross County at Tannadice on Saturday.
Dundee and District Youth Football Association (DDYFA) also confirmed all youth matches in the area will have a minute silence before kick off this weekend.
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