Manchester United's beloved receptionist Kath Phipps has died aged 85, the Premier League club confirmed on Thursday.
Described as a 'ubiquitous figure since the late 1960s' and a 'one-woman institution', Man United penned a heartfelt 454-word tribute in honor of Phipps, who spent 55 years at the club in various roles.
The statement read: “We are deeply saddened to announce the passing of our beloved colleague Kath Phipps at the age of 85.
'A ubiquitous figure at Manchester United since the late 1960s, Kath worked for the club for more than 55 years in a variety of roles, but her contribution went beyond a particular job title.
'Having become a key member of the club's office staff in the following years, Kath later became a fixture on match day at the directors' entrance to Old Trafford, taking on the role of training ground receptionist, thus ensuring that every visitor to Carrington was greeted by the happiest of people. welcomes.
“For regulars, that greeting would extend to warm hugs and friendly conversations, as Kath came to embody the family atmosphere that underpins the club's culture.
'If Kath ever had a bad day, she never took it to work; her positive attitude helped set the mood for everyone who entered the training ground, always willing to lend a listening ear and offer words of encouragement to anyone who needed them – whether megastar footballers, casual staff or occasional visitors.
“Kath was a one-woman institution whose memory will be cherished by everyone at the club who had the privilege of knowing her. She said last year: “I can't imagine doing anything else.” We can't imagine this place without her.
“Rest in peace, Kath.”
Wayne Rooney was among the first to pay tribute to Phipps with an emotional post on social media, while former Manchester United players and staff were quick to write messages to honor her memory.
The Plymouth manager said on Instagram: 'The heart and soul of Manchester United. Everything the club stands for. A legend who will be greatly missed. Thanks for the memories Kathy. Thoughts with family and friends.'
Manchester United defender Harry Maguire also posted, saying: 'A legend that will never be forgotten. I will miss you. We will miss you. RIP Kat.”
Meanwhile, former Red Devils captain Gary Neville shared the club's emotional tribute by simply adding a broken heart emoji.
Fellow ex-United skipper Patrice Evra, who showed a photo of himself hugging Phipps, said: “Losing a family member is never easy.”
Man United loanee Jadon Sancho – who currently plays for Chelsea – also wrote an emotional farewell to Phipps on social media.
Sancho wrote: 'I am grateful that I had the pleasure of meeting you. Such a sweet, kind-hearted soul. She always made sure I was doing well and always put a smile on my face when I was feeling down, I appreciate you Kath.
“My condolences go out to her family at this difficult time.”
Former Red Devil Scott McTominay, now at Italian club Napoli, wrote: 'You were loved and adored by all Kath. You made me smile every time I saw you and could brighten up any room you entered. Rest in peace'.
Club legend Paul Scholes was another to share an emotional tribute to Phipps. He wrote: 'The heart and soul of our special football club will be sadly missed by everyone and will be impossible to replace… RIP Kath'.
It didn't take long for United to release an emotional tribute to Phipps in the form of a two-minute video on social media.
The caption for the video read: “In loving memory of Kath Phipps: friend, confidant and dear colleague. United will never be the same again.'
Phipps, who appeared in David Beckham's Netflix documentary, started working at Man United in 1968 during the reign of Sir Matt Busby as the club's first operator.
In May 2022, after more than fifty years of service, she was honored with a Service to Football Award – with Beckham admitting that the 'amazing' receptionist 'really deserved' the honor for her services to football and Manchester United in general.
Ms Phipps accepted her award alongside Ferguson and former United midfielder, coach and interim manager Michael Carrick.
She called it “a great honor” to be recognized by the League Managers Association on Tuesday.
Mrs Phipps told the club's official website: 'In September 1968 I simply applied for the job at Les Olive and got it within a few days,' said Kath. 'Sir Alex was my longest serving manager. He has always been there for me, every time. He is absolutely brilliant to work for.
'I don't think we've ever had a bad word in all the years I've known him. Even on match days. We are like brother and sister – that's how he talks to me.
'I just wake up every morning as a happy person. I come here and I just enjoy seeing them all. One day I'll miss them when I'm not here, but I don't want to give up yet.'
More to follow…
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