Everton FC have announced that their chairman Bill Kenwright CBE has passed away at the age of 78.
Kenwright, a lifelong Everton supporter, joined the club's board in October 1989, later becoming chairman and overseeing 19 seasons at Goodison Park.
"Everton Football Club is in mourning following the death of chairman Bill Kenwright CBE, who passed away peacefully last night aged 78, surrounded by his family and loved ones," a club statement read.
"Everton’s longest-serving chairman for more than a century, Bill Kenwright led the club through a period of unprecedented change in English football.
"In his 19 seasons as chairman, the club secured 12 top-eight finishes, including a top-four finish in 2005, a run to the 2009 FA Cup final and European qualification on six separate occasions.
"The club has lost a chairman, a leader, a friend, and an inspiration. The thoughts and prayers of everyone at Everton are with his partner Jenny Seagrove, his daughter Lucy Kenwright, grandchildren and everybody who knew and loved him."
The Premier League offers our sincere condolences to Bill's family and friends, and everyone at Everton, at this sad time.
Everton Football Club is in mourning following the death of Chairman Bill Kenwright CBE, who passed away peacefully last night aged 78, surrounded by his family and loved ones.
— Everton (@Everton) October 24, 2023