The music world gathered in Manchester today to say a final farewell to Stone Roses bassist Gary 'Mani' Mounfield, with Oasis legend Liam Gallagher playing a poignant role as a pallbearer.
A Sombre Farewell at Manchester Cathedral
Liam Gallagher arrived at Manchester Cathedral on December 22 for the funeral service, appearing solemn alongside his partner, Debbie Gwyther. The service was held to honour the life of Mani, who tragically died in November at the age of 63 following a seizure at his home in Heaton Moor, Stockport.
In a powerful display of respect and friendship, Gallagher helped carry his close friend's coffin out of the cathedral following the service. He took a position at the front of the casket, leading the procession.
Bandmates and Friends Pay Their Respects
Gallagher was not alone in bearing the weight of the coffin. He was joined by Mani's former Stone Roses bandmates, guitarist John Squire and drummer Alan 'Reni' Wren. The image of the three musicians, alongside the Oasis frontman, provided a moving tribute to the influential bassist.
The congregation inside the cathedral was a who's who of the Manchester music scene and beyond. Notable figures paying their respects included Bez of the Happy Mondays, musician Aziz Ibrahim, actress Sally Lindsay, and Andy Burnham, the Mayor of Manchester.
A Legacy of Music and Personal Loss
Mani's passing comes just two years after the death of his wife, Imelda, who lost her battle with cancer in 2023. The couple leave behind their 12-year-old twin sons, Gene and George.
Fans, deeply affected by the loss of a figure who helped define the iconic 'Madchester' sound of the late 80s and 90s, lined the streets outside the cathedral to pay their own respects as the funeral procession arrived.
Liam Gallagher had previously expressed his profound grief on social media platform X following the news of Mani's death. He wrote that he was "in total shock and absolutely devastated", signing off with the poignant message "RIP RKID".
The funeral marks the end of an era for many, celebrating the life of a bassist whose groove underpinned some of British rock's most anthemic moments.
