Walter Smith passes Ibrox for one last time as thousands see off legendary Rangers boss

Cheers broke out and people could be heard crying in the crowds as his funeral cortege moved along Edmiston Drive this afternoon en route to a private funeral service for his family. 

Smith, who passed away at the age of 73 last week, was one of the most successful Light Blues managers of all-time, delivering 21 titles across two spells and taking the club to the 2008 UEFA Cup final. 

Tributes have poured in from all over the world since his death was announced by the club, with Smith called the "embodiment of a Rangers" and a "gentleman" by politicans, key figures from within the game, and the wider public. 

The club's chairman Douglas Park said last week: "On behalf of the Rangers board of directors, staff and players, I convey my deep condolences to the Smith family.

"Walter leaves behind a wife, children and grandchildren, all of whom are in our thoughts and prayers at this difficult time.

"It is almost impossible to encapsulate what Walter meant to every one of us at Rangers.

"He embodied everything that a Ranger should be. His character and leadership was second to none, and will live long in the memory of everyone he worked with during his two terms as first-team manager.

Rangers boss Steven Gerrard, left, and assistant Gary McAllister lay a wreath outside Ibrox last week

"I spoke with Walter as recently as last weekend. Even when he was battling illness, he was still able to provide advice and support. For that, I am personally grateful.

"I know that he continued also to maintain dialogue with senior members of staff, including our manager, Steven Gerrard.

"Walter will be sorely missed by all of us at Rangers." 

A public memorial will take place at Glasgow Cathedral on Friday, November 19. Smith is survived by his wife Ethel, their sons, and their grandchildren. 

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