Former Manchester United manager Alex Ferguson is mourning following the death of his wife Cathy.
The family confirmed the death in a statement released on Friday.
“We are deeply saddened to confirm the passing yesterday [Thursday] 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,” reads the statement.
Cathy passed away aged 84.
Manchester United football club sent its heartfelt condolences to Ferguson and his family.
“Everyone at Manchester United sends our heartfelt condolences to Sir Alex Ferguson and his family on the passing of Lady Cathy,” reads the tribute.
The club acknowledged that Lady Cathy was a beloved wife, mother, sister, grandmother and great-grandmother, and a tower of strength for Sir Alex throughout his career.
According to the Guardian, the late Cathy met Ferguson in 1964 while they were both working at a typewriter factory.
The two got married in 1966 and had son Mark two years later, followed by twins, Darren and Jason, in 1972.
Darren, is the manager of Peterborough United.
“She was incredibly supportive of her husband throughout his career at Old Trafford before he stepped down from his role and retired from football in 2013 to spend more time with her,” the Guardian reported.
Ferguson retired as Manchester United manager in 2013 after an unprecedented period of success for the Red Devils.
“My wife Cathy has been the key figure throughout my career, providing a bedrock of both stability and encouragement. Words are not enough to express what this has meant to me,” Ferguson said then as he hangs his boots.