Manchester United is mourning the loss of Kath Phipps, an iconic figure who dedicated over 55 years to the club. Kath, who passed away at the age of 85, joined the Red Devils in 1968 as a switchboard operator.
Over the decades, she became a cherished part of the club, working in various behind-the-scenes roles during the eras of legendary players like Sir Bobby Charlton, George Best, Denis Law, and Nobby Stiles.
Kath’s long-standing role as the receptionist at the training ground made her a familiar and welcoming presence for players, managers, and staff alike. Her warm personality was the embodiment of the club’s familial spirit. In 2022, she received the League Managers Association’s Service to Football award, a testament to her invaluable contributions. She accepted the honor alongside Sir Alex Ferguson and Michael Carrick.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, players and staff visited Kath at home to ensure she wasn’t alone, underscoring her importance to the Manchester United community. When her husband Richard passed away, Sir Alex Ferguson and his squad attended the funeral to support her.
The club’s heartfelt tribute emphasized her irreplaceable role, saying, “Kath was a one-woman institution… Her memory will be cherished by everyone who had the privilege of knowing her.”
Tributes poured in from footballing greats. Wayne Rooney described her as “the heart and soul of Manchester United,” while Paul Scholes noted she was “impossible to replace.” Mary Earps called her an “incredible woman,” and Scott McTominay remembered her as someone who “brightened every room she walked into.”
Kath Phipps will forever be remembered as a vital part of Manchester United’s legacy. Her warmth, dedication, and unwavering love for the club leave behind a lasting impact on all who knew her. Rest in peace, Kath.