Great Harwood family's plea after dad-of-six dies unexpectedly

Ryan Anthony Scott, 54, unexpectedly passed away in the early hours of Sunday morning (August 14).

He was described by his 22-year-old daughter Saffron Scott as a kind-hearted and caring man to his six children, five grandchildren, and wife Michelle.

Saffron said: “He’s suffered all of his life with his mental health but still took the time to make sure everyone around him, friends, family, anyone, was okay and that they knew he could come to him for anything.

Ryan and his two grandsons.

“People would go to him for support, and he’d always be there to talk and listen, whoever they were. He was such a lovely man and such a softie.

“He had such a massive impact on people, people who knew him know how amazing he was.

“He loved his children and his grandchildren – they were the light of his life. And he was my biggest fan, I’m proud to be his daughter.”

Ryan with his family on Halloween

Ryan used to be a painter and decorator, and even organised the Great Harwood Halloween display that would bring the whole town together, but had to stop working due to his struggles with mental health.

Ryan and his wife Michelle

The family are waiting on confirmation for what caused Ryan’s death but they suspect he died from a heart attack.

As Ryan’s death was so sudden and unexpected the family had not prepared for funeral costs and with five grandchildren under the age of five to provide for, the family are struggling to afford the funeral.

Saffron explained: “With covid and then the cost-of-living crisis, we’re all struggling anyway, this was so unexpected – no one was prepared, no one has put anything away.

“My mum has been so worried and stressed out so I thought I can start a GoFundMe page to try and take one less worry away.”

Ryan and his son's partner.

On the GoFundMe page, Saffron wrote: “He was an amazing man with a passion for living life to the fullest. He loved all of his children and wife and did everything he could to help them and support them.

“He deserves the most beautiful send off but unfortunately due to current circumstances we have very little funding towards a funeral and would really appreciate any help anyone could provide.

“Even if you are not in a position we would appreciate you sharing this fundraiser, every little helps and would be extremely appreciated.

“Thank you so much for all your support. RIP to my beautiful Dad Ryan Anthony Scott."

One generous person, who knew Ryan personally, donated £500 to help the family give Ryan the funeral that he deserves.

Saffron added: “We’ve been so overwhelmed by the generosity of everyone, it just shows how much my dad meant to people.

“One lady, who I don’t even know who she is, has donated £120 which is so lovely.”

So far, £1,060 has been raised out of a target of £1,500. To donate, you can visit the GoFundMe page here.