Gerry Marsden of You’ll Never Walk Alone fame passes away after short illness
Gerry Marsden, the singer of famous band Gerry and the Pacemakers and singer of the popular rendition of You’ll Never Walk Alone, has died aged 78 after a short illness.
Marsden was best known for the song that would become an anthem not only for his beloved Liverpool but also for the likes of Glasgow Celtic and Borussia Dortmund.
Gerry and the Pacemakers also had hits with the songs Ferry across the Mersey, I Like It and How You Do It?
His voice is part of the life of millions of fans of Liverpool football club around the world, and his passing will be mourned far and wide, but is most deeply felt in the city he called home for 78 years.
LFC mourn Gerry Marsden’s passing
Liverpool Football Club issued a statement on Marsden’s passing.
“Liverpool Football Club is deeply saddened by the passing of Gerry Marsden,” Liverpool FC said.
“A Scouser and lifelong Liverpool fan, Marsden was the lead singer of 1960s Merseybeat band Gerry and the Pacemakers, whose rendition of You’ll Never Walk Alone was adopted by the Kop in 1963.
“The group’s third number one single – a cover of Rodgers and Hammerstein’s classic – became famous throughout the world as Liverpool FC’s anthem and is played moments before kick-off of every home game at Anfield.
“Sung in times of both celebration and commiseration, Gerry’s interpretation of You’ll Never Walk Alone will forever be inextricably linked to the club he loved.”
Marsden, who has a history of cardiac troubles, died after contracting a heart infection.
Liverpool radio presenter and friend of Marsden Pete Price also paid tribute to the singer in a Twitter post.
“It’s with a very heavy heart after speaking to the family that I have to tell you the Legendary Gerry Marsden MBE after a short illness which was an infection in his heart has sadly passed away.
“Sending all the love in the world to Pauline and his family. You’ll Never Walk Alone.”
Marsden is survived by his wife Pauline and daughters Yvette and Victoria.
Liverpool loses an icon
Marsden was a pillar of the Liverpool community, raising millions of Pounds for charity including extensive amounts raised for the families of those killed or injured in the Hillsborough Stadium disaster.
The popular singer was given the Freedom of the City of Liverpool for his charitable works and for his contribution to Liverpudlian culture.
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