The city fell quiet yesterday (July 14) as hundreds gathered in and around Sheffield Cathedral for Uriah Rennie’s funeral.
It was a sombre, yet inspirational ceremony, that honoured the tragic passing of a local hero.
Uri was the first-ever black referee to oversee a Premier League game, breaking barriers for a whole generation of fans.
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Locally, he also served as a magistrate, was granted an honorary doctorate at Sheffield Hallam University, and earlier this year was named Chancellor at the university.
Trafically, on June 8 this trailblazing hero passed away.
A close friend, Patrick Meleady, told The Star: “In Uriah we have lost one of Sheffield’s greatest ever sons and ambassadors. Uriah was unique and is irreplaceable, loved by so many people not just in Sheffield but across the world.
“Uriah is is a massive loss to us all and was a great man.”
His funeral gave many a chance to remember the referee’s iconic life, with many footballing and local icons showing up to pay their respects.
5. Uriah Rennie's funeral
Former Sheffield United chairman Kevin McCabe appeared to show his respects for the refereeing legend. | S70 Media
6. Uriah Rennie's funeral
Sheffield Wednesday, Leeds United and Norwich City defender Jon Newsome made an appearance. | S70 Media
7. Uriah Rennie's funeral
Former Minister of Sport Richard Caborn told the BBC that Uri was 'adopted by the city and adopted by the great sport of football'. | S70 Media
8. Uriah Rennie's funeral
Fellow referee Howard Webb said: "Uri was a valued member of the football family who has been taken from us too soon." | S70 Media