When Manchester United labelled the legendary Kath Phipps as the ‘heartbeat’ of the club back in 2023, it was difficult to imagine a more fitting description.
Over 56 years of loyal service, greeting all who walked through the door with a smile and the warmest of greetings, Kath Phipps was the one constant during six decades of ups and downs, silverware and glory at Manchester United.
When United’s receptionist extraordinaire first arrived at Old Trafford back in 1968, initially working as a switchboard operator, Matt Busby was at the helm while Bobby Charlton and George Best were tying defenders up in knots.
Kath was there to see Sir Alex Ferguson take charge in 1986. She was there to see Manchester United lift the first Premier League title. She was there to witness that glorious Treble, the rise of Wayne Rooney and Cristiano Ronaldo, all the way up to the appointment of Ruben Amorim a few weeks ago.
So the sad news of Kath’s passing on Thursday – at the age of 85 – united the entire Red Devils community not only in mourning but also boundless appreciation.
Wayne Rooney and Manchester United heroes pay tribute to Kath Phipps
Rooney, who became accustomed to seeing Kath’s ever-joyful expression during his wonderful Man United career, lead the tributes on social media.
“The heart and soul of Manchester United,” Rooney writes on Instagram. “Everything what the club is about. A legend who will be greatly missed.
“Thanks for the memories Kathy. Thoughts with family and friends.”
“You were loved and adored by everybody, Kath,” adds Scott McTominay, a graduate of United’s fabled Carrington academy. “You made me smile each and every time I saw you, and you could brighten up any room you walked into.
“Rest in peace.”
“The heart and soul of our special football club,” says Paul Scholes. “[Kath] will be sadly missed by all and impossible to replace.”
Why Kath Phipps is so special to Manchester United
If Manchester United is truly one of the game’s true ‘family clubs’, then Kath Phipps epitomised that like no other.
Her years of loyal service were recognised by the League Manager’s Association back in 2022 – Kath earned a Service to Football award while accompanied by Ferguson and Michael Carrick – and that infectious smile brightened the days of all she met.
“In September 1968, I just applied for the job and got it within a couple of days,” Kath told Manchester United’s official website a few years ago. “Sir Alex was my longest-serving manager. He’s always been there for me, every time. He’s absolutely brilliant to work for.
“I don’t think we’ve ever had a cross word all these years I’ve known him. Even on matchdays! We’re like brother and sister.
“I just get up every morning as a happy person. I come here and I just love seeing them all. I’ll miss them one day, when I’m not here.”
The feeling, from all at Manchester United past and present, is very much mutual.
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