Online Reporter
Lovemore Dube, [email protected]
TAMARA Barreto, one of two of Roy’s children says their family is proud of the great coach’s achievements as a coach which include championships with three Southern Africa clubs, Highlanders, Orlando Pirates and Zimbabwe Saints.
Roy died in Portugal on Monday at the age of 72 leaving behind his wife Fazil and daughters Jade and Tamara.
Burial has been set for Portugal on Wednesday next week.
“We are very proud of his football achievements! Upon his death we as a family have been overwhelmed by the recognition he has received,” she said.
Tamara also took time to reflect how as young kids they would be at some of his clubs’ matches as fans. “Some early memories included us and mum sitting among the fans in the stadiums, there was no special treatment as dad never wanted this.
“The only time I ever recall is a stampede starting where we were as children carried over the fence for safety. Other than that we were treated the same as his fans,” she said.
She spoke of her dad’s love for Africa.
“My dad loved Africa and it pained him to leave. It’s sad that he never returned, this was too painful for him. He made his new home in rural Portugal and enjoyed a quiet pace of life,” Tamara added.
In March this year Roy travelled on his final trip to England and Ireland to spend time with his grandchildren.
“He was back home in Portugal for a very short while before he was admitted to hospital, he left a big hole in our lives,” she said.
Tamara says Roy was a different person at home than the no nonsense man fans and players knew.
Far from the prying eyes of soccer fans and cameras around stadia, Roy has been described as a kind, loving and patient gentleman who lived life as a devout Catholic.
“My dad behind the doors of publicity was a kind, loving and patient gentleman,” said Tamara.
She said to the coach family came first.
“Dad always put us first and until his death, he told us he would do anything for us to his detriment. – which he did!”
“Dad enjoyed peace, a slow pace of life and enjoyed his art work and time to read. Dad absolutely adored his grandchildren, Zachary age 14, Maia age 10, Jack age 8, Conor age 6, Ally age 2. Our dad had the most incredible general knowledge, he could expand on any subject discussed – totally amazing. Dad was very religious and based his later years all based on his Catholic faith and lived his life by his faith,” said Tamara.
Meanwhile, Fazil, Roy’s wife confirmed last night that the former Warriors assistant coach will be cremated on Wednesday afternoon.
“Burial will be on Wednesday, 8 July, 2026. There will be mass at our local church, after that we make way to the crematorium,” said Fazil.
