Fans across the country, and indeed the world, were united in grief upon hearing of Jack Charlton’s passing with friends, family and all those who knew him sharing some of their fondest memories of him in his honour.
Pat Charlton, the wife of legendary Ireland manager Jack Charlton, has thanked Irish fans for their support following her husband’s death. Inundated with messages of love for Big Jack, she’s credited it as helping the family grieve their loss.
In a statement released by the FAI, Pat said that she is “so grateful” for everyone who has taken the time to send the family their condolences.
“It means so much to me and to the family to know that Jack meant so much to everyone in Ireland and I would like to share this message with the Irish people.
“Jack loved his time with the Irish team and it is clear from all the cards, letters and flowers that have arrived at our house just how much the people of Ireland loved him as well.
“I cannot tell you how much that means to me and to John, Deborah and Peter and all the family as we try to come to terms with Jack’s passing. Every day we have received more messages, more cards and more flowers from Ireland, from England and all across the world.
“It has given me great comfort to see all those letters arrive from Ireland and to see the reaction to his death right across the country. To know he was so loved in Ireland means such a lot to us all, it really does.”
Pat Charlton is so thankful for Irish support and heartfelt tributes to Big Jack
➡️ https://t.co/pyxhuKHqBI #COYBIG pic.twitter.com/KuPO0z2TNO
— Ireland Football ⚽️🇮🇪 (@IrelandFootball) July 28, 2020
Jack’s eldest son, John, later added:
“We will get over to Ireland when the time is right and with the help of the FAI, we will have an Irish send-off for my dad. We all look forward to that but in the meantime, we want to thank you all for everything over the last fortnight. Your support has been really special for us all.”
A book of condolences opened by the FAI in honour of Jack Charlton has received over 20,000 virtual signatures.
