Everton have confirmed details of a Memorial Service for their longest-serving chairman for a century, Bill Kenwright.
Kenwright passed away at the age of 78 after 19 years in his role as Everton chairman since succeeding Sir Phillip Carter in 2004.
The chairman oversaw periods of success and in recent times, difficulties during his time with the Toffees.
Everton have now confirmed plans for a Memorial Service in honour of Kenwright, with fans allowed to attend.
A statement released by the club wrote: ‘The life of Bill Kenwright, Everton’s longest-serving chairman for a century, will be celebrated in a Memorial Service at Liverpool Cathedral on Monday 18 December, starting at 2pm.
Plans for a Memorial Service in honour of former Everton chairman Bill Kenwright have been revealed
Kenwright passed away at the age of 78 after 19 years in his role as Everton chairman
The chairman oversaw periods of success and in recent times, difficulties during his time with the Toffees
‘The man who lived, breathed and dreamed Everton Football Club, since he stood on the Goodison Park terraces himself as a boy, would have wanted as many football supporters as possible to be present.
‘But venue-logistics mean the service will be a closed event and supporters wishing to attend are asked to register their interest using the form below.
‘A ballot will then be held and successful applicants will be sent an e-ticket. Due to limited numbers, only one ticket per applicant can be allocated. All interest must be registered by 5pm on 6 December.
‘The service is expected to last 90 minutes, ending at approximately 3.30pm.’
The death of Kenwright touched the footballing world as he was known as one of the good guys in the game.
Sean Dyche, the last Everton manager to be appointed by Kenwright hailed his former chairman as he said: ‘He was nothing but supportive even through some hard times. He was someone to pick up the phone to, always got time for you.
‘He always wanted to find out what’s going on and touch base with what the feel of the camp was, the players, the mood, individuals. Often telling me his wisdom about Everton Football Club and what we should be doing!’
Former Everton superstar Wayne Rooney hailed the impact Kenwright had on his development at the club
Sean Dyche issued a heartfelt condolence after Kenwright’s passing
Dyche was joined by several former Everton stars that were touched by Kenwright’s kindness during his time with the Toffees.
One of Everton’s longest-serving managers, David Moyes, who spent 11-years in charge of the Toffees, described Kenwright as a ‘wonderful man’.
‘Incredibly sad news. Wonderful man,’ he said. ‘He gave me an opportunity in my career and was brilliantly supportive.
‘I couldn’t have had a better chairman as a young coach. When I look at modern football nowadays, and how difficult it is for young managers to make their way…Bill Kenwright was great to work with.
‘He’ll be sadly missed and to the whole family, they know how I feel. Really disappointed that Bill’s left.’
Everton and Manchester United legend Wayne Rooney added to the tributes upon hearing of his passing, coming through at Goodison Park when he was just 16-years-old.
‘Growing up as a young kid, I’ve known him [Kenwright] for a long time,’ Rooney began. ‘I had a good relationship with him.
‘He’s Everton through and through. I know he had a difficult time over the last few years with what’s happening at Everton, but everything he was doing was from the right place.
‘Evertonians will know that he gave everything, all he could for the club. He’ll be sadly missed.’
While not everybody who wishes to attend Kenwright’s Memorial Service will be able to due to the venue capacity, Everton fans have paid tribute to their former chairman since his passing and will continue to do so.
Supporters can register their interest to attend the Memorial Service through Everton’s website, and must do so by 5pm on Wednesday, December 6.
