British family struggles with father’s funeral costs in Thailand

The sudden death of a British man from Sunderland has left his family reeling, both emotionally and financially.

Alan Carr Bryan, a well-known Sunderland local nicknamed “The Bear” passed away at his hotel in Pattaya on July 28, prompting his daughter, Abigail Ilsley, and stepdaughter, Natalie Parish, to travel to Thailand for his funeral and to settle his affairs.

Despite his prior travel insurance, Bryan unknowingly overstayed his coverage, leaving his family with an unexpected financial burden of approximately £6,000 (around 270,000 baht). Bryan’s ex-wife, Julie Robertson, mother to Abigail, described their ongoing relationship.

“I am his ex-wife, but we had been in touch constantly through our daughter. We were still friends; we had always been friends. He used to phone me from Thailand and introduce me as his wife. I would say, ‘We have been divorced for 24 years’.”

The family’s concern grew when Bryan abruptly ceased communication.

“He was supposed to be in contact with us, but we could not get hold of him. His phone was just ringing, his Thai phone was just ringing – then one of his friends told us he had found him in his hotel room and he had passed away.”

Ilsley and Parish are staying with a friend of Bryan’s in Pattaya but are still facing a steep bill for travel, funeral, and paperwork costs.

Robertson has set up a GoFundMe page to help with the expenses.

“We have raised about £2,100, but it was four grand just for the flight.”

The 71 year old man was a beloved figure in Sunderland, renowned for his size and athletic prowess, earning him the nickname “The Bear.” He attended Red House Comprehensive and was the top shot putter in the country at 15. Bryan also played rugby for Belford House and football for various teams. He worked as a bus driver and bouncer in the city centre.

A cremation ceremony has already taken place in Thailand, and a memorial service will be arranged later, reported Sunderland Echo.