THIS is the heartbreaking moment Millwall owner John Berylson was given a standing ovation at his last game.
The 70-year-old American businessman suddenly passed away on Tuesday morning in a “tragic accident”.
The Lions narrowly missed out on a playoff position after losing 4-3 to Blackburn Rovers on the last day of the season.
Duncan Watmore’s double and Oliver Burke’s addition sent Millwall into the break with a two-goal cushion.
And owner Berylson, a former Harvard graduate, took to the field to interact with fans during half-time on May 8.
Footage shows the Chairman smiling and clapping at supporters as he made his way around the stands at The Den in Bermondsey, south-east London.
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Berylson, who first became involved with the Championship club in 2006, died on Tuesday morning.
The club have given no further details.
“It is with a collective broken heart and the deepest of regret that we announce the passing of our beloved owner and chairman, John Berylson,” Millwall posted on Twitter.
“John, who turned 70 last month, lost his life in a tragic accident on Tuesday morning, and the thoughts of everyone at the club are with his wife, Amy, his three children, Jennifer, James, and Elizabeth, and the rest of the Berylson family.
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“John’s sudden and tragic passing will unquestionably impact all those who were fortunate to have known him. He was a truly great man, incredibly devoted to his family, and a person of such remarkable generosity, warmth, and kindness.
“He lived a storied life, one full of colour and joy, and was infinitely thoughtful of others with an endless desire to share his immense knowledge and experiences to help people.
“Under John’s passionate leadership and guidance, Millwall has enjoyed tremendous success and stability.
“Since first becoming involved in the club in 2006, he has presided over some of the greatest moments in Millwall’s history, and his influence in providing the platform for those was immeasurable.
“John continued to speak eagerly about the new season and his vision for the future, and any success moving forward will be in his memory and honour. It will be his legacy.
“John revelled in the club’s underdog status and mentality. He related strongly to such values and identity and adored Millwall supporters. He was fiercely loyal to all his staff, and both they and the fan base will miss him beyond measure.”
No further details about the nature of the accident have been given.
Season ticket holder Lauren Fruen, 34, said: “There is a feeling of huge shock around the club following the news of John Berylson’s death.
“We all loved him, he was a great chairman who really understood our club and its fans. He was one of us.
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“The last time we saw JB he got a standing ovation from a sell-out crowd at The Den. It was a special moment then, made even more poignant now.
“He will be hugely missed.”
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
