A funeral was held for Scott Knight, who died in December aged 55, at Wyre Forest Crematorium on Thursday (January 9).
His friend Eamon Doherty said that around 150 people attended the funeral to pay their respects to Mr Knight.
Scott Knight (Image: Eamon Doherty)
Mr Knight, from Kidderminster, worked as a dedicated referee for the Worcestershire FA for 26 years, coaching and mentoring young players.
His family described him as a “larger-than-life personality who brought joy and laughter to everyone he encountered.”
His family said in a statement, “His mischievous sense of humour could light up any room, and his kind heart knew no bounds.
“Scott had a deep passion for football refereeing and was always ready to engage in lively discussions about the game and his past experiences.
“He will be dearly missed, but his spirit will live on in the memories we hold close to our hearts”.
Flowers for Scott (Image: Eamon Doherty)
At the funeral service, the opening music was December, 1963 (Oh What a Night!) by Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons and Somewhere Only We Know by Keane was also played whilst mourners reflected on memories of Mr Knight.
The closing music was You’ll Never Walk Alone by Gerry and the Pacemakers, due to Mr Knight’s love of Liverpool FC, which “brought everyone to tears”.
Mr Doherty said: “His daughters Charlotte and Daisie paid tribute to their Dad with a beautiful heartfelt speech.
“We all ended up back at the Viaduct pub which put on an amazing wake, including a lively buffet, and we all listened to some of Scott’s favourite songs where we laughed and cried.”
Eamon Doherty with Scott Knight (Image: Eamon Doherty)
Friends of Mr Knight held two charity football matches to support him after he had to have his leg amputated last year due to a diabetic ulcer. A GoFundMe page was also set up to “give back to a man who has given so much to the community.” In total, the community has raised more than £2000.