Today, Rangers made an announcement regarding the funeral of Walter Smith.
A private, family service will take place this week on Wednesday.
Over the last week, there has been an outpouring of sadness, respect and tributes from the extended Rangers family, from others clubs as well as others in public life, giving an indication of the stature of the man, his quality as a human and his professional success.
“The passing of Walter Smith has touched every member of the Rangers family, and the club can today update that plans are being put in place for a public memorial service.”
“The memorial will take place on Friday 19th November at Glasgow Cathedral. Please note, this will be an invite-only event. The service will be available for free via RangersTV.”
“A private, family funeral is to be held for Walter on Wednesday 3rd November, prior to the public memorial. As a club, we ask this privacy is respected by all supporters, the wider public and the media.”
“It is the intention for the cortège to pass Ibrox at 3:15pm, entering from Helen Street, driving in the direction of Paisley Road West before rejoining the Motorway.”
“The club would like to put on record its thanks to our supporters, supporters of other clubs and the wider community for their kind words and support at this difficult time.”
Tributes
Both the Copland and Broomloan gates at Ibrox have been covered in many, varied tributes to the Rangers manager, from fans, near and far.
That continued yesterday, as well as further respects to the legend at Rangers game against Motherwell.
A classy banner was unveiled by the Briidgeton Loyal RSC and throughout the game, chants of “Walter Smith’s blue and white army” could be heard.
— Rangers Football Club (@RangersFC) October 31, 2021
Walter Smiths blue and white army pic.twitter.com/DR6LhOONRI
— Bridgeton Loyal RSC (@BRIDGETON_L_RSC) October 31, 2021
As did our supporters club after the game.
RIP Gaffer 💙 https://t.co/xEInkSmvpj pic.twitter.com/zDEUTf1Pjx
— Baillieston True Blues (@bailliestontb) October 31, 2021
The sorrow and the pain will linger for some time to come, but the impact and the legacy of Walter Smith is forever ingrained in the very fabric of Rangers Football Club.