Bill Kenwright CBE, the chairman of Everton FC, passed away at the age of 78.
Theater and film producer Kenwright, who has served as Everton’s chairman for the longest time—more than a century—led the team through a time of unparalleled change in English football, the club announced in a statement.
A native of Everton, he joined the board in October 1989 and bought the team with his True Blue Holdings consortium on Boxing Day, 1999.
He took over as chair in 2004 after serving as vice-chairman under his close friend Sir Philip Carter.
The team achieved 12 top eight finishes during his 19 seasons as chairman, including a top four result in 2005, a trip to the 2009 FA Cup final, and six different European qualification runs.
“The club has lost a chairman, a leader, a friend, and an inspiration,” Everton FC said in a statement.
“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.”
Kenwright received tributes from both the theater and football industries.
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After Bill Kenwright passed away at the age of 78, Jenny Seagrove paid tribute to him (Image: Jonathan Buckmaster)
Support for Bill Kenwright has been overwhelming since she paid tribute to the chairman of Everton FC.
Since 1994, Mr. Kenwright and Jenny Seagrove have been romantically involved. Everton FC confirmed in a statement today that the team is “in mourning” following the tragic announcement of Mr. Kenwright’s 78-year death.”Bill Kenwright, Everton’s longest-serving chairman for over a century, guided the team through a time of unparalleled transformation in English football,” the statement continued.
Evertonian by birth, he joined the board on October 23, 1989, and his True Blue Holdings consortium bought the team on Boxing Day, 1999.He took over as chair in 2004 after serving as vice-chairman under his close friend Sir Philip Carter.The team achieved 12 top eight finishes during his 19 seasons as chairman, including a top four result in 2005, a trip to the 2009 FA Cup final, and six separate European qualification runs. A friend, inspiration, leader, and chairman have left the club. Everyone at Everton is thinking and praying for his partner Jenny Seagrove, his daughter Lucy Kenwright, his grandchildren, and all those who were in his life.”
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After the tragic news was revealed, Jenny used the social media site X to honor her partner.
“I lost my darling Bill last night,” the woman uttered. Following the update, supporters posted messages of encouragement in the comments section.
Luke expressed his regret for your loss. A man of great heart.”
Kym continued, “I’m so sorry.”
“I’m sorry for your loss, Jenny,” Peter said. Bill was a wonderful Evertonian who dedicated a great deal of time, energy, and passion to the club. He was also a very kind and gentle man. To you and your family, love.”
The Liverpool City Council added the following to the post: “Our sincere condolences. He was a special champion that the city of Liverpool was fortunate and proud to have as a son. His influence will last for a very long time.”
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