December 5th 2024.
Kath Phipps was a beloved member of the Manchester United family for over half a century, having joined the club in 1968 as a switchboard operator. Her passing at the age of 85 has left the entire community heartbroken. The news was announced by United themselves, paying tribute to the icon who dedicated her life to the club behind the scenes.
Kath's journey with United began during the reign of legendary manager Sir Matt Busby, when the team boasted names like Sir Bobby Charlton, George Best, Denis Law, and Nobby Stiles. She quickly became a familiar face for players, managers, and staff alike, as she worked in various roles over the years. Her position as the receptionist at the club's training ground meant she was a constant presence and a friendly greeting for anyone who visited.
In 2022, Kath received the League Managers Association's Service to Football award, an honor she shared with the likes of Sir Alex Ferguson and Michael Carrick. Her dedication and contributions to the club did not go unnoticed. This was evident when Sir Alex Ferguson attended Sir Bobby Charlton's funeral with Kath in November 2023. It was a testament to the special bond she shared with the club and its members.
In their tribute, United described Kath as an "omnipresent figure" who went beyond her job title. She was a key member of the office staff and a regular fixture at Old Trafford's directors' entrance on matchdays. Her warm hugs and friendly chats made her an integral part of the club's family-like culture. Even during the pandemic, players and staff visited her at home to ensure she had company.
Kath's contributions were recognized and appreciated by all. When her husband passed away, Sir Alex Ferguson took the whole squad to the funeral to stand in solidarity with Kath. And in 2022, she was honored by the League Managers' Association, prompting tributes from players like David Beckham and Gary Neville, who recognized her impact on their careers and the club's day-to-day operations.
Kath was truly a one-of-a-kind individual, and her memory will be cherished by everyone who had the privilege of knowing her. She once said, "I can't imagine doing anything else," and her absence will be deeply felt by all at the club. Rest in peace, Kath.
Former United captain Wayne Rooney took to Instagram to pay his respects, calling Kath "the heart and soul of Manchester United." He thanked her for the memories and offered his thoughts to her family and friends. Another former player, Paul Scholes, also shared his condolences, saying that Kath was the "heart and soul" of the club and that she will be impossible to replace.
Even those who had left the club, like England women's goalkeeper Mary Earps and Scott McTominay, paid tribute to Kath's incredible character and the impact she had on their lives. Mary described her as an "incredible woman" and the "heartbeat of the club," while Scott reflected on the love and adoration she received from everyone at United. Kath will always hold a special place in the hearts of those who knew her, and she will be dearly missed.
[This article has been trending online recently and has been generated with AI. Your feed is customized.]
[Generative AI is experimental.]
