Lady Cathy Ferguson, the wife of former Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson, has passed away at the age of 84. The couple had been married since 1966 and had three sons, including Peterborough boss Darren Ferguson.
“We are deeply saddened to confirm the passing yesterday of Lady Cathy Ferguson.
“The family asks for privacy at this time.”
A statement from the Ferguson family
Flags at Old Trafford have been lowered to half-mast, and both the men’s and women’s teams will wear black armbands in their fixtures this weekend as a mark of respect to Lady Cathy’s passing away.
Man United also issued a statement expressing condolences to Sir Alex Ferguson and his family on the loss of Lady Cathy.
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.
Manchester United statement on X
Cathy and Sir Alex met in 1964 while working at a typewriter factory. Cathy is known to have played a significant role in persuading Sir Alex not to retire in 2002. In his autobiography, Sir Alex Ferguson mentioned that Cathy had told him, “One, your health is good. Two, I’m not having you in the house. And three, you’re too young anyway.” When Sir Alex eventually announced his retirement 11 years later, he acknowledged Cathy’s support throughout his career.
Several football clubs, like Manchester City, Arsenal, St Mirren Football Club, Aberdeen, and Peterborough United Football Club, offered condolences to the Ferguson family on social media.