Family members, friends, and notable figures gathered in Glasgow to bid farewell to Paul Ferris. The former underworld enforcer passed away earlier this month at the age of 62. His funeral service took place at Daldowie Crematorium on the outskirts of the city. This marked the final chapter of a life that transitioned from notorious criminal convictions and a landmark murder trial to a later career as an author.
A traditional bagpiper led the funeral procession into the crematorium grounds. The service featured a carefully selected playlist of music. This included Tom Petty and The Heartbreakers’ “I Won’t Back Down” and Dire Straits’ “Brothers in Arms,” reflecting moments from his complex life journey.
Notable Mourners and Attendees
Dozens of mourners turned out to pay their respects. Figures from sports and entertainment were among them. Former world champion boxer Alex Arthur and actor Paul Brannigan were spotted in the congregation. Brannigan is known for his roles in Ken Loach’s film The Angel’s Share and the BBC Scotland soap opera River City. He had previously been earmarked to portray Ferris in an upcoming biographical film project.
A Complex Legacy in Glasgow
Ferris first gained widespread public notoriety in 1992. He stood trial and was cleared of the murder of Arthur Thompson Jnr, the son of Glasgow crime figure Arthur Thompson Snr. The case unfolded during the longest-running trial in Scottish criminal history at that time.
Years later, Ferris faced legal trouble in London. He was convicted of gun-running offences in 1998, resulting in a prison sentence. Following his release, Ferris consistently maintained that he had completely abandoned criminal activity. He dedicated his later years to writing memoirs and recounting his experiences growing up in Glasgow’s tough Blackhill district.
Ferris is survived by his wife, Carolyn, and his five children.
