WREXHAM’S oldest fan has died aged 100 with fellow supporters paying emotional tribute to the club legend.
Life-long reds supporter Arthur Massey was a fan-favourite after starring in Disney’s hit documentary Welcome to Wrexham.
But fans were left heartbroken after Arthur’s daughter Julie revealed today that the centenarian passed away.
Julie shared the devastating news on social media when she posted a picture of her dad with the caption: “14/3/24 – 8/8/24. RIP Dad.”
Wrexham AFC fans paid tribute to the “legend” who was the heart and soul of the club.
One supporter wrote: “So sorry to hear this Julie. Your Dad was a really lovely man who touched so many after appearing on the documentary.”
Another said: “I’m so sorry for your loss. He seemed like such a wonderful person. Rip Arthur, Wrexham legend.”
Meanwhile a third added: “Rest easy Arthur. True Wrexham forever and always. Love to you Julie and your family.”
Wrexham also paid tribute to Arthur on X, formerly Twitter: “Everybody at Wrexham AFC is extremely saddened to learn of the passing of life-long supporter Arthur Massey, aged 100.
“All our thoughts are with Arthur’s family and friends at this time. Forever a Wrexham supporter.
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Arthur featured heavily in the season three episode ‘Temporary’ when owner Rob McElhenney visited him at home for his 100th birthday.
The loyal supporter memorably said: “Everything is temporary. No joy lasts forever. No pain lasts forever, either.
“That’s life. You have to accept what it is, not what you want it to be.”
He also met King Charles during his visit to Wrexham in December 2022.
During the King’s visit, Arthur spoke about the current excitement surrounding the football club since the takeover of Rob and co-owner Ryan Reynolds.
The documentary’s producer, Bryan Swarberg, said: “Incredibly sorry for your loss. His was a life well lived. He was a great man. Love to you and the family.”
Having reached a century, Arthur was the club’s oldest fan and even received a gift from Wrexham AFC when he hit the milestone back in March.
Arthur was presented with a Wrexham shirt, with the No.100, by club officials ahead of their clash Tranmere Rovers at the STok Racecourse.
As well as being a loyal Wrexham fan, Arthur was a dedicated volunteer for the Royal British Legion’s annual poppy appeal.
He was also a Second World War veteran, serving as a sapper in the Burma Campaign in South East Asia.
His death comes just hours before Wrexham kick off their first season in the third tier of English football since 2005.
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They start their League One campaign tomorrow and will welcome Wycombe Wanderers to the Racecourse.
The club secured back-to-back promotions in April to earn promotion up to League One.
Arthur’s 100th birthday celebrated by owners
Hollywood star Ryan Reynolds bought AFC Wrexham in 2020 with pal Rob McElhenney and saw the club break a 45-year trophy duck as well as achieving promotion for the first time in 15 years.
Both of Wrexham’s famous owners – Rob McElhenney and Ryan Reynolds paid tribute to Arthur Massey when he turned 100.
Rob said: “Happy 100th Arthur!!! Let’s celebrate 101 in League 1!!! That seems poetic to me.”
Ryan added: “Congratulations, Arthur! 100 is the new 98! Happy Birthday, young man.”
His daughter Julie Birrell said: “Dad’s had a fantastic day today, surrounded by the love from the Wrexham family. Thank you to everyone who stopped to wish him Happy 100th Birthday.”
The club also handed him a shirt featuring the number ‘100’ on the back in recognition of him reaching the incredible milestone.
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
