Lady Cathy Ferguson, the spouse of the esteemed former Manchester United manager, Sir Alex Ferguson, has sadly passed away at the age of 84.
Cathy Holding and Alex Ferguson first crossed paths while employed at a typewriter factory in 1964.
Two years later, in 1966, they embarked on their journey of matrimony and together raised three children and were blessed with 12 grandchildren. Their union lasted for an impressive 57 years.
The Ferguson family released an official statement on Friday, October 5, confirming the heartbreaking news.
“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 statement expressed. “The family kindly requests privacy during this difficult time.”
Alex Ferguson referred to Cathy as his “bedrock” and acknowledged her immense influence in his life and career when he retired as manager of Manchester United in 2013, after an incredible 27-year tenure.
“My wife Cathy has been the cornerstone of my career, providing unwavering stability and encouragement,” he expressed. “Words cannot adequately express what her support has meant to me.”
Ferguson also described Lady Cathy as the only person in the world to whom he never answered back.
In a poignant revelation, Lady Ferguson confessed that she initially believed the man who would go on to become the most successful manager in British football history was a “thug” when they first met, as he sported a plaster on his face from a football injury. She fondly recalled their first date, which consisted of a trip to the cinema and a gift of a box of licorice allsorts, which he promptly devoured.
“That was our romantic day,” she shared in the 2021 documentary Sir Alex Ferguson: Never Give In, directed by their son, Jason. “We got married in Glasgow registry office in 1966, and that was the beginning. I went to my work, and he went to his football.”
The Manchester United club issued a statement expressing their heartfelt condolences to Sir Alex Ferguson and his family. “Lady Cathy was a beloved wife, mother, sister, grandmother, and great-grandmother, and a pillar of strength for Sir Alex throughout his illustrious career.”
