Tributes have been paid to a well-respected former football coach and player from Barrhead following his death at the age of 75.
Jim Forrest passed away on Hogmanay at the Queen Elizabeth University Hospital with his wife Janette, daughter Fiona and son Jamie by his side.
The former right-winger played for Arthurlie in the late 60s and later became a coach and chairman at Barrhead Youth Football Club (BYFC), then known as Barrhead Boys' Club.
Notably Jim coached the under 14 side at the boys’ club who beat Celtic in a replay to win the Scottish Cup in 1984.
A spokesperson for Arthurlie said: “We are saddened to hear of the passing of former player and supporter Jim Forrest.
“He played with Arthurlie for one season and played 28 games.
“Jim scored ten goals and played alongside the likes of Ian Wylie, Bobby Skippen and Frank Lennon.
“Our thoughts are with Jim’s family and friends at this time.”
A spokesperson for BYFC added: “Jim was a well-loved member of the community.
“He will be sadly missed. All of our thoughts and prayers are with Jim's family and friends at this time.”
Jim’s son Jamie said his family have been immensely touched by the outpouring of love for his dad since his passing.
READ NEXT: Work starts on 12 new affordable flats in Barrhead
Born and bred in Barrhead, Jim attended Barrhead High school and was also known by his nickname Beggsy which stemmed from his middle name Begg.
He married Janette on May 18, 1974 and the couple celebrated their golden wedding anniversary with family in 2024.
Jim was also a doting grandfather to Fiona’s son Rory and Jamie’s son also named Jamie.
A welder and pipe fitter by trade, the hard-working family man worked for various companies during his career.
“My dad was a quiet man, but he was a real pillar of strength,” explained Jamie.
“He was loyal man who just loved his family and his grandchildren, and enjoyed a beer with his pals.
“I was very honoured to have him as my best man when I got married.
“He really passed on his love of football to me and we went to lots of matches together over the years.”
His passion for the beautiful game started at a young age and Jim played for various teams as a youngster, including the school side and the Boys’ Brigade.
After playing a few games for Arthurlie, he was scouted as a teenager by English club Walsall who asked him to sign professionally.
He opted, however, to stay in Barrhead where he was happiest and where he enjoyed playing his football.
READ NEXT: Council faces calls to add more streets to pavement parking exemptions
Following his time with Arthurlie, he played with various amateur teams including Fereneze Star.
When his playing days came to an end he became heavily involved with the boys' club, coaching various age groups.
“He regarded the under 14s Scottish Cup win as his biggest achievement in football and he still spoke about how proud he was of the boys becoming national champions,” added Jamie.
Jim’s funeral will take place on Monday, January 26 at Hurlet crematorium at 12pm.
Share