David Beckham and Family Honor Man Utd Legend Kath Phipps at Funeral
David Beckham and Family Honor Man Utd Legend Kath Phipps at Funeral.
Kath Phipps worked as a receptionist at Old Trafford
David Beckham and his parents were among the attendees at the funeral of Manchester United icon Kath Phipps on Monday, who sadly passed away at 85.
Kath was the first switchboard operator for United and later took on various roles, including being the receptionist at the training ground.
She dedicated an incredible 55 years to the club and was fondly referred to as a "one-woman institution" when her passing was announced on December 5.
The service was held at Manchester Cathedral and saw a host of notable figures in attendance, including former football manager Sir Alex Ferguson and Portuguese coach Ruben Amorim.
Photos from MailOnline captured David, 49, looking serious as he arrived to pay his respects with his mother Sandra and father Ted.
Dressed for the chilly weather, David wore a black suit, a white shirt, and a stylish double-breasted wool coat. Sandra, 76, looked elegant in black trousers, leather loafers, and a red scarf, while Ted sported a dark suit with a striped scarf.
A bunch of notable players were there, including Marcus Rashford, Harry Maguire, and Joshua Zirkzee. Former United legends like Roy Keane, Paul Scholes, Bryan Robson, Nicky Butt, John O'Shea, Wes Brown, Phil Bardsley, and Phil Jones also made an appearance.
When Kath passed away in 2024, it led to a wave of touching tributes. Former England captain David shared a heartfelt message on social media, calling Kath the "heartbeat" of the club.
"Forever in our hearts... The first and last face I would always see was Kath sat at reception at Old Trafford waiting to give me my tickets for the game," he penned.
"She was the heartbeat of Manchester United, everyone knew who Kath was and everyone adored her... I moved up to Manchester at 15 and Kath made a promise to my mum and dad, 'I'll look after your boy for you don't you worry,' and from that first day till the last day I spent with her that's exactly what she did."
David continued: "Old Trafford will never be the same without your smile as we walk through those doors... We love you."
Meanwhile, an official statement from Manchester United stated: "If Kath ever had a bad day, she never brought it to work; her positive attitude helped set the mood for everyone entering the training ground, always ready to lend an ear and offer words of encouragement to anyone who needed them – be they megastar footballers, casual staff or occasional visitors."
Kath Phipps’ legacy at Manchester United is one of warmth, dedication, and service. For over five decades, she was more than just a receptionist; she was the heart of the club. Her kindness and positive spirit left an indelible mark on everyone who passed through the doors of Old Trafford and the training ground.
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From young players to football legends, Kath’s presence was a comforting constant, always offering a smile and encouragement. Her memory will live on in the hearts of those who had the privilege of knowing her, ensuring her influence at Manchester United remains everlasting.
