David Beckham flies 4,200 miles to say final goodbyes to receptionist who took care of him

David Beckham is mourning the loss of his dear friend Kath Phipps, a beloved figure within the Manchester United family. Phipps, who passed away at 85, dedicated over five decades to the club—first as part of the office staff and later as the receptionist at its training ground. To Beckham, she was far more than a colleague; she was a constant, reassuring presence throughout his career.

In a heartfelt tribute, Beckham shared a touching photo of himself holding Phipps’ hand on Instagram, alongside a message that struck a chord with those who knew her.

“Forever in our hearts… The first and last face I would always see was Kath sitting at the reception at Old Trafford, waiting to give me my tickets for the game. She was the heartbeat of Manchester United, everyone knew who Kath was, and everyone adored her,” he wrote, highlighting the unique bond they shared.

Phipps’ unwavering warmth and kindness made Old Trafford feel like home, not just for Beckham but for countless others. The former footballer also revealed a special promise Phipps made to his parents when he first joined Manchester United—further underscoring the profound care and commitment she brought to those around her.

"I moved up to Manchester at 15 and Kath made a promise to my mum and dad, 'I'll look after your boy for you don't you worry' and from that first day till the last day I spent with her that's exactly what she did," he wrote. Beckham acknowledged that Old Trafford will "never be the same" without Phipps. "Old Trafford will never be the same without your smile as we walk through those doors... We love you," he concluded his emotional post. Beckham's Instagram post sparked an outpouring of love and tributes from people in the comments section.

For instance, @chrisgodfrey wrote, "The fact you have gone to see her clearly shows how much she means to you. David you are a class act a CLASS ACT, Sir David Beckham." Similarly, @jackiebrockbank wrote, "Speaks volumes about the kind of person you are that you made time to see her." @anniemurray commented, "She sounded like a beautiful lady who touched many lives. Thoughts are with all who loved her." @eirlysbellin commented, "In your documentary series, it was Kath and her care for you that stood out for me. I’m sorry for your loss and what a legacy of love she leaves."

Meanwhile, @joanne commented, "We are so grateful and honored to have met such lovely people on David’s journey, ones that became family, seeing them weekly knowing that they are always there looking after someone so special to us is a reflection of them. Kind, caring just a lovely lady... everyone will miss you, Kath." Beckham and Phipps' heartfelt bond was also evident when she appeared in the former athlete's Netflix docuseries, "Beckham."

She recalled the first fan mail she received for Beckham and said, "I can't obviously remember. He just built up and built up, all these young ladies writing to him." Phipps also mentioned the athlete receiving underwear through the post, adding, "It's not nice is it, sending underwear. I'd put them to one side and didn't reply." Besides Beckham, Manchester United also paid tribute to the beloved late staff member through their official website.