Remembering Dermot Walsh: A Passionate Hibs Supporter and Champion of Dnipro Kids

EDINBURGH, SCOTLAND – The Dnipro Kids charity and the wider Hibernian FC community are mourning the recent passing of Dermot Walsh, a lifelong supporter of the Hibs and a dedicated donor whose quiet generosity made a lasting impact on the lives of orphaned children in Ukraine.

News of Dermot’s passing was met with heartfelt sadness by those who knew him, not only as a passionate football fan, but also as a man with deep compassion and commitment to helping others. Over the years, Dermot supported the Dnipro Kids charity—an organization founded by Hibernian supporters in the aftermath of the club’s UEFA Cup tie against Dnipro Dnipropetrovsk in 2005. He made regular donations to the cause, following its progress closely, particularly during its most critical moments after the outbreak of war in Ukraine.

Dermot’s wife, Lilian, reached out to the charity following his death to share just how important Dnipro Kids had been to her husband. In a touching tribute, she told us:

“Dermot was a passionate lifelong Hibs fan and was proud that the Dnipro Kids charity was set up by Hibs FC supporters after the UEFA cup match in 2005, which he attended.
Dermot donated to this charity over the years and closely followed your heroic efforts to bring the children to Scotland when the war broke out. I had no hesitation in choosing Dnipro Kids as the charity for family and friends to make donations to at his funeral last week. Hopefully we will have raised a lot of money in Dermot’s memory.”

And raise money they did. Thanks to the kindness of friends, family, and the broader Hibernian community, the collection held at Dermot’s funeral—both through physical collection boxes and online contributions—raised nearly £1,000. This generous donation will go directly toward supporting the continued care, education, and wellbeing of displaced Ukrainian children, many of whom have suffered unimaginable loss due to the war.

It is a deeply moving tribute to Dermot’s life and legacy—a reflection of the values he lived by and the community spirit he so loved being a part of. His unwavering belief in supporting others, even from afar, is an inspiration that will live on in the work of Dnipro Kids and in the hearts of all who knew him.

As the charity continues its mission to provide safety, stability, and support for children in need, it is moments like these that underscore the power of community and the enduring influence of one individual’s compassion.

To Lilian and the entire Walsh family, we extend our deepest condolences and heartfelt thanks. Dermot’s memory will not only live on in your hearts but in the lives of the many children he helped to uplift.

Rest in peace, Dermot Walsh. Your kindness and Hibs pride made a difference that will never be forgotten.