Everton mourn death of chairman Bill Kenwright as Liverpool FC pay tributes

Everton chairman Bill Kenwright has died at the age of 78. Kenwright passed away on Monday evening, surrounded by his family and loves ones. He had surgery to remove a cancerous tumour from his liver eight weeks ago.

Kenwright, a boyhood Evertonian, served on the Goodison Park for more than 30 years. He was first appointed a director of the club in 1989, with the Toffees winning the FA Cup six years later.

In 2004, Kenwright became the club’s largest shareholder and chairman of Everton. In that period, the Blues secured their record Premier League finish of fourth in 2004-04 and were beaten FA Cup finalists in 2009.

Kenwright remained in his position after Farhad Moshiri purchased an initial 49.9% stake of Everton in February 2016.

Kenwright was also renowned one of the UK’s most successful theatre producers. Productions he was involved in on London’s West End included Blood Brothers - written by Merseyside-born Willy Russell - as well as Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat and Whistle Down the Wind.

An Everton statement said: “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.”

Everton’s Merseyside rivals Liverpool have shown consolidation and sent their condolences. The club posted on their X account: “Rest in peace, Bill Kenwright. The thoughts of everyone at Liverpool FC are with Bill’s family, friends and everyone at @Everton.”

The EFL wrote: “The EFL is saddened to hear of the passing of Bill Kenwright CBE. Our collective thoughts are with Bill’s family and friends, as well as everyone at @Everton.

Preston North End have sent their condolences. A club statement said: “Everyone at Preston North End is extremely saddened to learn that Everton chairman Bill Kenwright has passed away at the age of 78.

“Bill had been involved with Everton since 1989, firstly being appointed to the board before becoming chairman in 2004 – a post he has held ever since. The thoughts of everyone at PNE are with Bill’s loved ones and all those connected with Everton Football Club at this difficult time.”

Former Everton defender Shane Duffy said: “Such sad news for a great man . RIP bill thank you for everything you have ever done for me and my family.”