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Tributes poured in from family, friends, and the football community for the late Welsh football icon Terry Yorath. His son described him as a “funny, kind, humble and proud man,” highlighting the personal qualities that endeared him to many. Around 100 people gathered to mourn the Cardiff-born midfielder, who passed away aged 75 earlier this month after a brief illness. The funeral was held at the Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic Church in Leeds, featuring hymns performed by the Welsh choir Côr Meibion Taf, followed by a wake at Elland Road, home of Leeds United.
Jordan Yorath, Terry’s son, spoke about his father’s resilience, especially after the tragic loss of his own son Daniel, who died suddenly at age 15 due to hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, a genetic heart condition. Jordan recounted how his father “persevered through pain” and remained deeply connected to football, which he described as his “lifeblood.” In 1985, Yorath was a player-coach for Bradford and was present during the devastating fire at Valley Parade that claimed 56 lives. Despite these hardships, he showed extraordinary compassion by attending the funerals of all victims. Comedian and presenter Elis James delivered a heartfelt eulogy, describing how Daniel’s passing “devastated the whole family and the whole community” and referenced the “horror” of the Bradford fire as a defining series of tragedies in Yorath’s life. James also praised Yorath’s ability to lift the spirits of those around him, noting, “wherever he went he left people feeling better… he had time for everyone.”
Several prominent figures from the football world paid their respects and shared memories. Chris Kamara characterized the funeral service as “beautiful” and reflected on Yorath’s remarkable career filled with both achievements and challenges. Liverpool legend Ian Rush expressed gratitude for Yorath’s influence during his career, stating, “He gave me all the confidence” and emphasizing that Yorath always prioritized his players. Rush fondly recalled the 1991 victory when Wales beat Germany 1-0, a moment boosted by Yorath’s belief in him. These remarks underline the profound mark Yorath left as both a player and manager, described by James as being on the “Mount Rushmore of Welsh football.”
The coffin, embellished with flowers in Leeds United’s blue, yellow, and white colours as well as a floral arrangement shaped like the Welsh flag, arrived to the singing of “Hen Wlad Fy Nhadau.” The service included prayers led by Yorath’s grandchildren, Paloma and Phoenix, and featured readings and performances by members of the family, including a poem by Gabby Logan’s son Reuben and a rendition of “Jerusalem” by her daughter Lois, fulfilling Yorath’s wishes. The choir’s performance of “Danny Boy” delivered a “poignant” tribute to Daniel, while “You’ll Never Walk Alone” was sung as the congregation departed. Following the service, the family held a private burial and later gathered for a wake at Elland Road.
Elis James also highlighted Yorath’s pride in representing Wales, noting that he captained the national team during the Euro 1976 campaign and played a key role in advocating for the switch from “God Save The Queen” to “Hen Wlad Fy Nhadau” as the anthem for Welsh matches. Yorath’s family remembered his encouragement of their engagement in various sports, with many excelling. Father Dennis Cassidy, who delivered the sermon, emphasized Yorath’s generosity and warmth, stating the family felt “deeply moved by the very many messages that they have received” and affirming, “Those who are mourned are not forgotten.” The funeral drew many former players who had been inspired by Yorath, including Ian Rush, Kevin Ratcliffe, Mickey Thomas, and others, reflecting the immense legacy left by a man who captained Wales 42 times in 59 internationals and was a key figure in Leeds United’s First Division-winning side of 1973-74, as well as their 1975 European Cup final team
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