Everton have confirmed that their chairman Bill Kenwright died on Monday night at the age of 78.
Kenwright had suffered from health issues for some time and recently had surgery to remove a cancerous tumour from his liver. A statement from the Merseyside club released after the procedure said it had been successful, though complications had led to a period in intensive care.
The update issued by Everton said that the 78-year-old had left hospital and returned home for what was expected to be a long but complete recovery.
Today, Everton confirmed that their chairman had passed away after serving the club for many years.
Kenwright was a lifelong Everton supporter and found success within the arts world, before joining the board of directors at Goodison Park in 1989.
He rose to become the club’s deputy chairman, purchased a majority share in Everton in 1999 and was appointed chairman in 2004, a role that he has held since.
The 78-year-old loved his football team and even when unwell, he upheld his responsibilities at the Merseyside club. Everton fans owe their chairman a lot for his work throughout the years and they will certainly give him the send-off he deserves over the coming days.