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100-year-old veteran who raised millions for UK health workers dies of COVID-19

Capt. Sir Tom Moore, the British World War II veteran who raised millions for health workers in the midst of the coronavirus pandemic, has passed away at the age of 100 after being hospitalized with COVID-19, Sky News reports.

Moore was admitted to the hospital on Sunday to receive treatment for pneumonia after contracting COVID-19.

“It is with great sadness that we announce the death of our dear father, Captain Sir Tom Moore,” said Moore’s daughters Hannah and Lucy in a statement. “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,” they added.

Moore is survived by his two daughters and four grandchildren.

Moore came to international acclaim when he raised more than £32 million (around $43 million) for British National Health Service workers by walking the length of his garden 100 times with his walker. He was knighted by Queen Elizabeth II in July of last year for his philanthropic efforts.

The royal family sent a message to Moore’s family through their official Twitter account.

“The Queen is sending a private message of condolence to the family of Captain Sir Tom Moore,” they wrote. “Her Majesty very much enjoyed meeting Captain Sir Tom and his family at Windsor last year. Her thoughts and those of the Royal Family are with them.”