Manchester United stars, both past and present, gathered to pay their final respects to Kath Phipps, the club's long-serving receptionist who passed away at the age of 85. The funeral service took place on Monday at Manchester Cathedral, drawing over 400 attendees including Sir Alex Ferguson, David Beckham, and the current United squad.
Phipps dedicated 56 years of her life to the club, making her one of Manchester United's most beloved figures. Sir Alex Ferguson called her a "fantastic person" and described her as the embodiment of what it means to be part of the Manchester United family. "She was a special person. I'm glad the players turned out. She would really have appreciated it," he remarked at the foot of the Cathedral steps.
The service felt like the old Manchester United coming together to honor one of their own. Players from various eras were represented, including Roy Keane, Ryan Giggs, and Gary Neville. Beckham, known to be one of Phipps' favorites, was among the first to arrive with his parents and made sure to visit Phipps during her final days to say goodbye.
Phipps had worked at the Carrington training ground since 1968, starting as a switchboard operator before becoming the recognizable face of Manchester United's reception area. Many players recalled their first interactions with her. Current player Jonny Evans reminisced about his childhood moments reading about her, saying, "You realized then Manchester United was run by one girl." He also shared how she would always welcome everyone with open arms and affectionate kisses, making newcomers feel instantly part of the club.
During the service, Ferguson led tributes, beginning with light-hearted anecdotes. He commented on United's recent 2-2 draw against Liverpool the night before the funeral, mentioning how Phipps would have been pleased. Evans delivered a heartfelt reading, reflecting on the personal connection players had with Phipps, including memorable hugs and the pride she took in her work. "It was her life," he affirmed. Evans highlighted her unwavering dedication, even expressing concern late in her life about how others perceived her ability to perform her job.
The tribute included the revered football anthem "Abide With Me," ensuring the spirit of the day captured Phipps' vivacious nature. Former players shared stories of their interactions, showing how deeply she impacted the Manchester United community, transcending her role as simply administrative staff.
A touching moment was Ferguson recounting how Phipps offered to visit his wife Cathy when she was hospitalized shortly after he moved to Manchester. Reflecting on Phipps' warmth and kindness, Ferguson ensured she had transportation to work after her wife passed away—proof of the mutual respect and affection they shared.
All attendees felt her absence deeply, especially the club's alumni who remembered Phipps as more than just the person who answered calls. They regarded her as their personal bridge to the club's rich history. Former goalkeeper Peter Schmeichel noted, "She was very important to me and everything I believe Manchester United is or is supposed to be." While many of the legendary team members paid their final respects, so did many ordinary employees who had left the club following recent changes, all driven by their love for Phipps.
The celebration of Phipps' life illustrated not just the legacy of one individual, but the sense of unity she inspired within Manchester United. Even as cost-cutting has emerged with the club's recent ownership transitions, Phipps' spirit of loyalty and togetherness remains influential.
Ferguson concluded his remarks after the service, encapsulating the sentiments expressed by many others, "You can't think of more than one moment where she didn't enjoy it." Her passing is certainly felt as the club mourns the loss of someone who was not only integral to daily operations but was the heart and soul of the Manchester United family.
Tributes across social media and from fans reflected the high regard with which she was held, as the world remembers not just her service to Manchester United but the kindness and love she brought to everyone who crossed her path. One fan remarked about her warmth, stating: "She treated everyone at Man United like royalty. She was royalty herself."
Phipps leaves behind cherished memories for all who met her, solidifying her place as one of the true icons of Manchester United.