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Tributes have poured in for Lady Cathy Ferguson, wife of former Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson, after her family announced she has passed away at the age of 84.
Lady Cathy was the rock behind Sir Alex’s 26 years at Old Trafford where he built an unprecedented era of success by knocking Liverpool ‘off their perch’ and eclipsing the Reds’ English league title count. She was also by the side of the great manager after he suffered a brain haemorrhage in 2018.
She and Sir Alex had three sons, including Peterborough United manager Darren, Mark and Jason, and 12 grandchildren and one great-grandchild. The couple met in 1964 and married two years later, spending 57 years as husband and wife.
READ MORE: Sir Alex Ferguson was 'livid' with David Beckham after discovering 'London night out'
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The family released an emotional statement on Friday announcing her death, the statement read: “We are deeply saddened to confirm the passing yesterday of Lady Cathy Ferguson, survived by her husband, three sons, two sisters, 12 grandchildren and one great-grandchild. The family asks for privacy at this time.”
Manchester United released a statement on Friday afternoon, which read: “Everyone at Manchester United sends our heartfelt condolences to Sir Alex Ferguson and his family on the passing of Lady Cathy.
“Lady Cathy was a beloved wife, mother, sister, grandmother and great-grandmother, and a tower of strength for Sir Alex throughout his career.”
Sir Alex once described his wife as the ‘leader’ of the family, speaking previously he said: "I think a lot of the time, for 47 years, she’s been the leader of the family, looked after our three sons and sacrificed herself for me."
Tributes came in from Manchester United and football fans across social media, with one comment saying: “RIP Lady Cathy Ferguson and Stay strong Sir Alex Ferguson. We are all with you.” A second said: “Without Lady Cathy Ferguson, there would be no Sir Alex Ferguson, and consequently, no legacy of Manchester United. Sir Alex’s pillar.”
A third added: “Rest in peace Cathy Ferguson. Such an incredible support to Sir Alex and, indeed, a key figure in @ManUtd history when it came to the retirement U-turn in 2002. Incredibly sad news.” While a fourth wrote: “’Behind every great man is a great woman.’ Very sad news of the passing of Sir Alex’s wife, Lady Cathy Ferguson. May she rest in peace.”
Flags will be lowered to half-mast at Old Trafford in tribute to Lady Cathy. United players will wear black armbands against Brentford on Saturday and the women’s team will also wear black armbands against Arsenal on Friday night.
- Manchester United FC
- Sir Alex Ferguson
- Family
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