Walter Smith's widow Ethel Smith has marked the fifth anniversary of the Rangers legend's death by donating £50,000 to the cancer unit at the Vale of Leven Hospital where her late husband received treatment.
The donation was made on behalf of the Emmie Smillie Foundation, with Ethel choosing the hospital as the recipient because of the care Walter received there before his death in October 2021.
Smith passed away aged 73 five years ago today, leaving behind an extraordinary legacy at Rangers and across Scottish football.
Walter Smith's widow makes donation
But while supporters remember the legendary manager for his remarkable achievements in the dugout, Ethel has chosen to honour his memory by giving something back to the local community.
"When I was asked where I would like the money to go, I had no hesitation in nominating the unit here at the Vale," Ethel said to the Helensburgh Advertiser.
"Walter received treatment here, so it felt fitting as a thank you for the care we received from the unit and the hospital in general.
"I'm so glad the money will be used here. We have personal experience of what the hospital does for the local community, and this donation is part of recognising that."
The £50,000 gift will be used to enhance facilities at the unit and improve the experience for patients receiving treatment.
The donation therefore carries particular significance for the Smith family given the personal connection Walter had with the hospital.
Gerry O'Hare, a former clinical nurse specialist at the Vale who cared for Walter and got to know the family, said the donation was especially meaningful.
"Having worked at the Vale and knowing personally how much the unit meant to Walter and his family, it is wonderful to see such a significant donation coming back to support its patients," he said.
"I know just how important this service is to the local community, and I'm delighted the Foundation's generosity will help it continue to make a difference."
The latest donation is not the first time the Emmie Smillie Foundation has supported the Vale of Leven, having gifted £50,000 to the hospital around four years ago.
McCoist and McInnes pay tribute to Ibrox great
The latest contribution comes as Rangers supporters and figures from across the game reflect on Smith's life and legacy five years after his death.
One of the most poignant tributes came from Ally McCoist, who spoke about his close friend at Smith's memorial service.
Quoting American poet Maya Angelou, McCoist said: "People may forget what you said, people may indeed forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel."
He then delivered a heartfelt message to Smith.
"I don't think I'll ever forget what Walter did or what Walter said, but I guarantee you, I will never, ever, ever forget how much that man made us all feel,” he posted.
"Walter - I love you to bits. Thank you very much for the memories."
Those words have taken on added meaning as Ethel continues to ensure her husband's memory benefits others.
Current Rangers boss Derek McInnes has also spoken about the influence Smith had on his own career, revealing that the pair remained in contact after McInnes moved into management.
McInnes recalled speaking to Smith just three or four days before his death and described how the former Rangers loss remained eager to help him succeed.
His memories also included a difficult moment from his playing career, when Smith left him out of the 1996/97 League Cup final despite McInnes having played in every previous round and scored in the semi-final.
Smith nevertheless took the time to explain his decision the following day and ensured McInnes received his full medal and bonus.
"The Gaffer didn't need to come in the next day after that cup final," he said.
"He could have been enjoying the moment, but he felt it was important to explain it to me."
Don Hutchison bites back at vile rant
These comments come just days after John O'Kane launched a shocking attack on the beloved gaffer, who sold him during his spell at Everton.
Another ex-Toffee, Don Hutchison, responded to the ex-Manchester United defender's comments, defending the former Scotland boss.
Hutchison claimed Smith initially told him to leave after signing Olivier Dacourt and John Collins, but said he refused to accept the decision and fought to regain his place.
"I've told this story before. A manager wants to know who exactly will fight for them. Walter told me to leave when he signed Dacourt and Collins," the ex-Scotland star explained.
"I said no f***ing way I'm better than those two. So, I battled and battled in training and never gave up. Next thing we all played."
Walter Smith - always remembered
Five years on from Walter Smith's death, his achievements remain central to his legacy.
But through Ethel's £50,000 donation, the Smith family's connection with the Vale of Leven is also continuing to make a tangible difference to people receiving cancer treatment in the community.
It is a fitting way to remember a man whose influence extended far beyond the football pitch.
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