“I don’t want to talk about football but about the man,” said Di Buckley, Denis Law’s daughter, as she began her heartfelt tribute at his funeral service. Her words captured the essence of the occasion perfectly. While Denis Law was undoubtedly one of football’s greatest icons, it was his humanity, warmth, and generosity that resonated most deeply with those gathered at Manchester Cathedral to bid him farewell.
The Man Behind the Legend
Denis Law’s humility was as remarkable as his footballing prowess. Despite being revered by millions and earning the moniker “The King” during his glittering career at Manchester United, he remained unaffected by fame. Sir Alex Ferguson, who delivered a moving reading during the service, confessed to being in awe of Law, stating: “He was called The King at Manchester United. And, at the end of the day, he earned that.”
Yet for all his regal status on the pitch, Denis was grounded and approachable off it. He enjoyed life’s simple pleasures—a cup of tea and a chat were often enough for him. In retirement, he gave the impression that football was just one part of a rich and fulfilling life. Above all else, he was a devoted family man who sought to give back to others. The word “generous” was used repeatedly throughout the service and seemed to encapsulate his character in every sense.
A Legacy Beyond Football
Denis Law’s charitable work remains an enduring part of his legacy. Mark Williams, one of the speakers at the funeral, highlighted the ‘Cruyff Courts’ in Aberdeen that bear Law’s name. These spaces encourage young people to engage in sports and aspire toward their dreams—just as Denis did growing up in challenging circumstances.
Born into a family of seven children in 1940 in Aberdeen, Denis faced significant hardships during his early years in Scotland’s Granite City. Di Buckley shared a touching anecdote about her father overcoming adversity: as a boy with a squint, he learned to play football with one eye closed. This determination eventually led him to sign for Huddersfield Town after undergoing corrective surgery. From there, his rise was meteoric—a testament to his tenacity and willpower.
These qualities—courage, resilience, and an unyielding desire to succeed—were traits Sir Alex Ferguson greatly admired in Law. During his tribute, Sir Alex reflected on how Denis would fearlessly confront towering defenders like Jack Charlton, embodying the fighting spirit that Scots hold dear. It is this same courage that inspired Sir Alex throughout his own career and remains a hallmark of greatness both on and off the pitch.
Inspiration Across Generations
Denis Law’s story is one of inspiration—not just for footballers but for anyone striving to overcome obstacles in life. His journey from a skinny boy playing with one eye closed to becoming one of football’s all-time greats is a reminder that no dream is too big when matched with determination and hard work.
The congregation at Manchester Cathedral reflected the breadth of lives Denis had touched. Alongside his family and close friends were Manchester United players past and present, club staff, and figures from across the footballing world. Notable attendees included Sir Kenny Dalglish—who shares Scotland’s international goalscoring record with Law—and Wayne Rooney, one of only two players to surpass Law’s goal tally for United.
Di Buckley brought smiles to those present as she imagined her father reunited with George Best and Sir Bobby Charlton—the other members of United’s iconic Trinity—under Sir Matt Busby’s management in heaven. And naturally, she pictured her mother Diana putting on the kettle for them all.
Immortalised at Old Trafford
It is impossible to separate Denis Law from football entirely; his impact on the game was simply too profound. As long as football exists, he will remain part of discussions about its greatest players. Sir Alex relayed an extraordinary compliment from Pele himself: Denis was the only British player who could have made it into Brazil’s legendary World Cup-winning team.
At Old Trafford, Denis is immortalised not only through memories but also through two statues that stand proudly outside the stadium—a testament to his enduring legacy at Manchester United.
Reverend Canon Grace Thomas aptly described his passing as “the end of an era but not the end.” Indeed, while Denis may no longer be physically present, his influence will continue to inspire generations of fans and players alike.
A Smile That Endures
As the service drew to a close, mourners were treated to an uplifting moment: a recording of Denis joking with fellow Scot Rod Stewart during a rendition of Angel. His voice echoed through Manchester Cathedral, bringing smiles amidst the solemnity—a fitting farewell for a man whose charm and wit left an indelible mark on everyone he met.
For those who knew him personally or admired him from afar, Denis Law will always be remembered with a smile. His life serves as a reminder not only of what it means to be great on the pitch but also how important it is to be kind-hearted and generous off it.
While few can achieve Denis’s level of footballing greatness, we can all strive to emulate his warmth and generosity toward others—a legacy far greater than any trophy or accolade could ever represent.
