​A Tribute to Jim White RIP, long serving member of Our Lady of the Wayside Praesidium who died on 30th June 2026.
There are some people whose lives quietly shape the future of an organisation without ever seeking recognition. Jim White was one of those people. For more than 70 years, Jim devoted himself to the work of the Legion of Mary Wayside Club, giving his time, his talents and, above all, his heart to serving those most in need throughout Glasgow.

His was a life lived in humble service, inspired by his deep Catholic faith and a genuine love for others. Jim was much more than a volunteer. He was one of the pillars upon which the Wayside Club was built.

Through his determination and foresight, he was instrumental in securing the premises we proudly own today at 32 Midland Street. That building stands as a lasting testament to his vision and his unwavering commitment to ensuring that future generations would always have a place from which to continue this vital work. Week after week, year after year, Jim could be found faithfully serving at the club, volunteering at least one evening every week while also attending our weekly Legion meeting. If someone was unable to attend, Jim was always ready to step in. He never counted the cost in time or effort because he believed that those who came through our doors deserved compassion, dignity and a warm welcome. As treasurer, Jim's careful stewardship transformed the club's finances. He often spoke of the days at South Portland Street when even finding £12 to pay the electricity bill was a struggle. Through his prudence, wisdom and careful management over many decades, the club grew from those difficult beginnings to owning our home at 32 Midland Street, with the financial reserves necessary to maintain and sustain our three-storey building.

It is a remarkable legacy—one that will continue to benefit countless people long into the future. Those who knew Jim will remember not only what he achieved but how he achieved it—with quiet humility, kindness and unwavering faith. He never looked for praise or recognition. His reward was knowing that he had helped someone in need and had played his part in carrying out Christ's command to care for the poor and the forgotten. We offer our heartfelt condolences to Maureen, his devoted wife of 66 years, and to all of Jim's family. We thank them for sharing Jim with us for so many years, allowing him to dedicate so much of his life to the service of others.

Jim has left behind far more than a building or healthy finances. He has left us an example of faithful service, generosity and Christian charity that we can all strive to follow. His legacy lives on in every meal served, every hand of friendship offered and every person who finds hope through the work of the Wayside Club. May God, whom Jim served so faithfully throughout his life, now welcome him into His eternal kingdom.

​Eternal rest grant unto him, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon him. May he rest in peace. May his soul, and the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace. Amen.

​We recently received a donation of sleeping bags from this young supporter. We are always very grateful for the support we receive from our donors, and all donations are put to good use.

Ardrossan Herald
IT was a cold, bright, Monday afternoon when dozens of strangers gathered to say goodbye to a man they never knew.
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They filed in to St Simon’s church in Glasgow’s West End last Monday to commemorate the life of a man who has been described as Scotland's version of the silent, sad, lost, but much loved, character Lennie from the acclaimed John Steinbeck novel Of Mice and Men.

The man was Ian Neilson. He had spent at least two decades of his life as an elective mute, choosing not to speak and instead using hand signals if he needed to communicate with anyone.

​Some of the Wayside Family with Fr Billy Donnelly who Celebrated Mass for the final time in 2016, just before the 2017 New Year Celebrations began.

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​We were treated to some New Year Rapping at the New Year’s party.

​​Karaoke in the early hours of the club 

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A good night had by all. 

Author :  Deacon Michael  O’Donnell Wayside Club chaplain from St Mary’s, Calton (original here)

​It is every Baptised person’s duty to serve, but the sacramental grace that a deacon receives at ordination through the bishop’s imposition of hands and the gift of the Holy Spirit enables him to carry out the ministry of service with a special effectiveness. He is configured to Christ in his servant role and becomes a living sign of the servanthood of His Church. Deacons are considered to be helpers of the bishop and render assistance—on his behalf—to the poor and needy of the community.