Gerry Marsden’s wife leads mourners at star’s funeral with powerful eulogy

Gerry Marsden MBE’s funeral took place today at a church near the River Mersey.

The Gerry and the Pacemakers star – best known for singing Liverpool FC’s anthem You’ll Never Walk Alone – died aged 78 after a short illness, his radio presenter pal Peter Price confirmed earlier this month.

And today his life was honoured, with his wife of 55 years Pauline leading the tributes and speaking on behalf of the rest of Gerry and her family.

“We, his family, are totally devastated,” she said, “and have been so moved and amazed at the extent of the respect, love and affection received from all over the world.

Gerry Marsden was honoured at his funeral today (Image: Redferns)

“When the time is right and we have come out of this terrible pandemic we hope a fitting memorial can be held for him in the city he loved so much.”

Gerry is survived by Pauline, daughters Yvette and Vicky, and two grandchildren, Tom and Maggie.

Current Covid restrictions mean the funeral could only be attended by 30 mourners.

One of those was Gerry’s friend and Mayor of Liverpool City Region, Steve Rotherham, who said: “Gerry’s legacy is his enduring music enjoyed by millions of fans worldwide and a football anthem sung on terraces around the globe.

Gerry was honoured by wife of more than 55 years Pauline (Image: ANL/REX/Shutterstock) Gerry was remembered by his family and friends (Image: Popperfoto via Getty Images)

“But he was a family man and a friend to many.

“I feel privileged he let me into his life although that makes his passing even more painful.”

Football legend Sir Kenny Dalglish also attended, adding: “Nobody can underestimate how important Gerry has been to Liverpool Football Club.

Gerry will be dearly missed by his beloved Liverpool FC (Image: Getty) Sir Kenny was among the mourners (Image: Getty)

“You’ll Never Walk Alone has huge meaning to the lives of Liverpool supporters around the world and is synonymous with the club.

“He will be sadly missed by those who knew him and the millions he never got to meet.”

Meanwhile, Arthur Johnson, a Liverpool-based journalist and friend of the family remarked that Gerry “loved Liverpool and its people.”

Gerry will also be remembered in a tribute tomorrow, before Liverpool FC take on Manchester United.