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Although David Beckham was on the other side of the world when he learned the news of his grandfather’s passing, he quickly returned to his native England after fulfilling his duties at the South Africa World Cup draw.

Beckham explained his decision to remain in South Africa until the event had concluded by telling the Daily Star, “My grandad was very proud of me being a part of this bid to bring the World Cup to England. If I had decided to go home, I know what he was like – a strong person from the East End of London – he would have shouted at me for leaving because he was passionate about his country.”

Out of deference to his grandfather’s Jewish heritage, David sported a bright blue yarmulke skullcap, while his wife, Victoria Beckham, attended the funeral with her husband, wearing her trademark giant dark sunglasses. 

Gallery Info: David and Victoria Beckham attend an emotional funeral of David’s grandfather, Joe West in Golders Green, North London.