Emily Ordish, a passionate supporter of Manchester United, passed away on December 19, 2023, at the age of 96. Known for her unwavering loyalty to the club, she developed a personal correspondence with legendary manager Sir Alex Ferguson, who frequently responded to her letters. Her loss has resonated deeply within the Manchester United community and among her family.
Born in Salford in 1929, Emily’s love for Manchester United began when she attended her first match in 1938 at the age of nine. Over the decades, she became a fixture at both Old Trafford and various stadiums across the country. She witnessed significant moments in the club’s history, including the triumphs of the European Cup in 1968 and the Champions League in 1999, the latter occurring just as she entered her seventies.
Emily’s connection with Ferguson began shortly after he took the helm at Manchester United in 1986. Their exchanges became a cherished part of her life, with Ferguson sending her a birthday card every year and even a cake on her 90th birthday. Her daughter, Clair Kearsley, described her mother as a vibrant and warm individual whose enthusiasm for the club inspired the entire family.
Legacy of Passion and Family
Emily’s family history is rich with connections to the club. Her father was a fan, but it was her brother, Bill, who first took her to see Manchester United play. Throughout her life, she held a season ticket in the Stretford End, a testament to her dedication. Clair noted that although her husband, Herbert, who passed away in 1999, had little interest in football, he supported Emily’s passion wholeheartedly.
Clair shared, “She had a really good relationship with him [Ferguson]. If anyone asked, he’d say, ‘Oh, I know Emily.’ She was very well known around the club.” Emily also formed friendships with players like Paul Ince, receiving letters and signed photos from club legends such as Sir Bobby Charlton, Sir Matt Busby, and David Beckham. Her favorite players were George Best and Bryan Robson, reflecting her deep-rooted connection to the club’s storied past.
As she aged, Emily continued to follow Manchester United closely, watching every game from home even when mobility issues prevented her from attending matches. “She would still always watch all the games,” Clair mentioned, adding that her mother often donned her United scarf while cheering for the team.
A Family United in Grief
Emily leaves behind a large family, including her daughters Clair and Christine, and sons John and Alan, all of whom share her passion for Manchester United. The family has remained closely connected to the club, with several members still holding season tickets. Clair reflected on her mother’s influence, stating, “That all came from mum really; she was the driving force.”
In a heartfelt tribute, Clair emphasized her mother’s resilience and generosity, saying, “She made us feel like we had everything when in reality we had nothing. We had everything we needed because of her.” As a final gesture of love for the club, Emily’s family arranged for her to be cremated in her Manchester United shirt, with memorabilia placed in her coffin.
The funeral will see many attendees donning Manchester United shirts, a fitting tribute to a woman whose spirit and passion for the club will live on through her family and the countless memories she created over her rich life.
