Everton’s previous 19 years of chairmanship were held by Bill Kenwright.

Bill Kenwright, the chairman of Everton, passed away at the age of 78. On Monday night, Kenwright died away in the company of his loved ones. Eight weeks ago, he underwent surgery to remove a malignant growth from his liver.

Born and raised in Everton, Kenwright spent more than 30 years on the Goodison Park board. The Toffees won the FA Cup six years after he was originally named a club director in 1989.

Kenwright became Everton’s chairman and the club’s main shareholder in 2004. During that time, the Blues finished fourth in the Premier League for the first time ever in 2004–05 and lost the 2009 FA Cup final.

After Farhad Moshiri acquired an initial 49.9% share in Everton in February 2016, Kenwright stayed in that position.

In the UK, Kenwright was known as one of the most successful theatre producers. Blood Brothers, written by Merseyside-born Willy Russell, as well as Joseph and the Amazing Technicolour Dreamcoat and Whistle Down the Wind were among the productions he worked on in London’s West End.

Everton said in a statement: “The club has lost a chairman, a leader, a friend, and an inspiration. The thoughts and prayers of everyone at Eve rton are with his partner Jenny Seagrove, his daughter Lucy Kenwright, grandchildren and everybody who knew and loved him.”

Liverpool, Everton’s Merseyside rivals, have expressed solidarity and extended their sympathies. The organisation wrote 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.
Condolences have been sent from Preston North End. The club announced in a statement: “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.”

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

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