Captain Sir Tom Moore who raised millions for charity passes away age 100

The hero who raised millions of dollars for charity by doing what he could has passed away.

Captain Sir Tom Moore - born April 30, 1920 - captured hearts around the world after raising $66.5 million for the UK's National Health Service by pacing 100 laps around his garden, aided by a walking frame.

He was even promoted from Captain to Colonel and given a knighthood by Queen Elizabeth for his efforts last year.

Now sadly the centenarian veteran has passed away after battling pneumonia and later contracting the Covid-19 virus. The medication Captain Tom was receiving for pneumonia meant that he was unable to receive the Covid-19 vaccine. 

His daughters Hannah and Lucy said in a statement: "It is with great sadness that we announce the death of our dear father, Captain Sir Tom Moore.

"We are so grateful that we were with him during the last hours of his life; Hannah, Benjie and Georgia by his bedside and Lucy on FaceTime. We spent hours chatting to him, reminiscing about our childhood and our wonderful mother. We shared laughter and tears together.

"The last year of our father's life was nothing short of remarkable. He was rejuvenated and experienced things he'd only ever dreamed of."

After the announcement of his death, Buckingham Palace said: "The Queen is sending a private message of condolence to the family of Captain Sir Tom Moore. Her Majesty very much enjoyed meeting [him] and his family at Windsor last year.

"Her thoughts, and those of the royal family, are with them, recognising the inspiration he provided for the whole nation and others across the world."

Liz Lees, chief nurse at Bedfordshire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust said on Twitter: "It has been our immense privilege to care for Captain Sir Tom Moore.

"We share our deepest condolences and sympathies with his family and loved ones at this incredibly sad time.

"We'd also like to say thank you, and pay tribute to Captain Sir Tom Moore for the remarkable contribution he has made to the NHS."

Last year Sir Tom said of the response he received to his charitable efforts: "I am absolutely overwhelmed.

"Never for one moment could I have imagined to be awarded with such a great honour. I'd like to thank Her Majesty the Queen, the Prime Minister and the great British public. I will remain at your service. This started as something small and I've been overwhelmed by the gratitude and love from the British public and beyond.

Photo / Getty

"We must take this opportunity to recognise our frontline heroes of the National Health Service who put their lives at risk everyday to keep us safe."

In celebration of his 100th birthday on April 30 last year, Sir Tom received two flypasts in his honour, one from RAF helicopters and one from World War II Spitfires and Hurricanes.

In addition to his garden walking for charity, Tom has also released a hit single, You'll Never Walk Alone, with singer Michael Ball. It quickly topped the charts, making him the oldest artist ever to have a UK No 1.

Rest in peace Captain Sir Tom Moore.

- Additional reporting by NZ Herald