The football world paused this week as fans, friends, and family gathered to say their final goodbyes to Terry Yorath, the Leeds United and Wales legend, who passed away aged 75.
While many celebrated his remarkable career on the pitch, his family remembered him as a kind, gentle, and loving father.
Yorath, who earned 59 caps for Wales and played nearly 200 times for Leeds United, died after a short illness on January 7.
His passing has left a deep mark on both the football community and his loved ones, who described him as more than a sports hero—they called him “Dad.”
A Family United in Mourning
Gabby Logan, the BBC presenter and Yorath’s daughter, was joined by her family at the funeral held at the Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic Church in Leeds.
Among them were her husband, former Scotland rugby star Kenny Logan, and their 20-year-old twins, Reuben and Lois, who shared emotional embraces as they bid farewell to their grandfather.
A hearse adorned with a floral tribute reading “Grandad” arrived at the church around midday, a poignant reminder of the pride and love Yorath carried as a grandfather to Reuben, Lois, Mila, Phoenix, and Paloma.
The service included hymns performed by the Côr Meibion Taf, and several football legends—including former Wales defender Chris Coleman and ex-Bradford City players Don Goodman and Stuart McCall—were seen paying their respects.
Football’s Tribute to a Legend
Yorath’s contribution to football stretched far beyond his playing days.
He featured prominently in Leeds United’s golden era under Don Revie, scoring 11 goals in 199 appearances over nine years and helping the club secure the First Division title.
He also had stints at Coventry, Tottenham, and Bradford before moving into management with clubs including Swansea, Bradford, Cardiff, Sheffield Wednesday, Margate, and even Lebanon.
He came close to leading Wales to the 1994 World Cup, narrowly missing out after a heartbreaking defeat to Romania in Cardiff.
The football community has been quick to honour Yorath’s legacy.
Leeds United called him “a club legend” in a statement, expressing their devastation and offering sympathy to his family.
Meanwhile, the Welsh FA also shared their condolences, highlighting the impact Yorath had on Welsh football.
Triumphs and Tragedies Off the Pitch
While Yorath’s football career brought glory, life off the field presented heartbreaking challenges.
He tragically lost his son Daniel in 1992, aged 15, to a genetic heart condition while playing football.
He also experienced the horrors of the Bradford City fire in 1985 as a coach, witnessing 56 deaths and helping evacuate fans, including his own family.
Despite these hardships, his family emphasized that Yorath remained a quiet, kind-hearted presence at home.
“To most he was a revered footballing hero, but to us he was Dad,” they said, taking comfort that he is now reunited with their late brother Daniel.
Gabby Logan’s Personal Tribute
Earlier this month, Gabby Logan faced one of her toughest moments when she had to leave the BBC’s Match of the Day mid-show after learning of her father’s death.
During live coverage, she introduced highlights for Bournemouth’s win over Tottenham and Manchester City’s game against Brighton before being replaced by Mark Chapman, who informed viewers of her family emergency.
Logan later paid an emotional tribute on social media: “Our dad was a warrior on the football pitch, captaining club and country, and a kind-hearted, generous man off it.
He instilled in me a lifelong love for sport.” She also thanked fans for their overwhelming messages of love and support, noting how much her father impacted people’s lives.
Returning to the Spotlight
After a brief hiatus, Logan returned to presenting for Amazon Prime’s Champions League coverage, anchoring Arsenal’s 3-1 victory over Inter Milan.
She admitted feeling nervous after her father’s passing but found comfort in the football community’s support: “The football family are so lovely, and it was, in the end, great to be back doing what I love.”
Remembering a Life of Influence
Throughout his career and life, Terry Yorath left an indelible mark.
From his achievements at Leeds and Wales to his roles as a manager and mentor, he inspired players, fans, and family alike.
His passing has not only saddened the football world but also reminded everyone of the quiet heroism and love he showed in his personal life.
Gabby Logan and her family continue to honour his memory while carrying forward the legacy of a man described by many as a warrior, a mentor, and above all, a devoted father and grandfather.
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