Tribute has been paid to Fife businessman Thomas Wallace, the visionary force behind Pettycur Bay Holiday Park in Kinghorn, who has passed away unexpectedly but peacefully aged 84.
Fondly known as TW, Tommy, Tom, and Tam, Thomas laid the foundations of the business which has grown into one of the largest caravan and holiday parks of its kind in Scotland.
The business recently appeared on the BBC TV series Life on the Bay, as featured in The Courier.
Paying tribute to his father, son Tommy, 60, told The Courier: “He was just a very hardworking family man – that’s probably the best way to sum him up.
“He was always supportive of his family above everything else.”
Condolences have also been expressed from far and wide with staff and customers describing him as a “gentleman” and a “good man” who gained so much respect for his work ethic and character.
Who was Thomas Wallace?
Born in Kirkcaldy and raised in Kinglassie, Thomas dedicated his life to both his family and his business.
He was a devoted husband to Magdelene, a loving father to Alan and Tommy, and a proud grandfather and great-grandfather. He was also a cherished brother to Alex.
Thomas began his career in construction, working as a joiner and general foreman for Miller Construction, before establishing a transport business in Kinglassie.
His entrepreneurial spirit led him to the caravan industry over 50 years ago, founding T&M Caravan Transport, which later expanded to include his sons – a moment of great pride when he added “& Sons” to the company name.
In 1984, the Wallace family acquired Pettycur Bay Holiday Park, then a modest site with 170 caravans, a shop, and an office.
Under Thomas’ leadership, and working closely with his wife and sons, the park flourished into one of Scotland’s premier holiday destinations.
It now hosts over 600 caravans alongside a state-of-the-art leisure and entertainment complex and hotel.
A multi-generational family business
The Wallace family, spanning three generations, continues to manage the growing business, which also includes Kinghorn Harbour Holiday Park, Leven Beach Holiday Park, and the Old Manor Hotel at Lundin Links.
The family marked the park’s 40th anniversary last year, a milestone that Thomas took immense pride in.
Despite his success, Thomas remained grounded, never forgetting his humble beginnings.
He was deeply involved in the day-to-day operations of the park right up until the morning of his passing.
In a Courier interview in 2022, Thomas’ grandson Steven said fondly of his grandfather: “He often says the only time you’ll see him sitting down is when he’s in a box!”
His hands-on approach and larger-than-life personality made a lasting impact on staff and customers alike, who have shared countless anecdotes in tribute to him.
Family comforted by community support
The Wallace family has taken great comfort in the outpouring of condolences and support from friends, colleagues, and the wider community, recognising the profound influence he had on so many lives.
Thomas is survived by his wife Magdalene and sons Alan and Tommy.
He was also a loving grandfather and great-grandfather, and a dear brother of Alex.
Thomas Wallace’s funeral service will be held on Friday February 14, at Kirkcaldy Crematorium at 1.30 pm.
The cortege will depart from Pettycur Bay at approximately 12.45 pm from Wallace View. Following the service, family and friends are invited to the Images Suite at Pettycur Bay Holiday Park.
For those unable to attend the crematorium, the service will be live-streamed in the Waterfront Lounge.
The complex will be closed from 12pm to 5pm to allow staff to pay their respects.
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