MILLWALL have announced the death of “beloved” club owner John Berylson following a “tragic accident” aged 70.The Championship club said they have a “collective broken heart” as tributes to their late chairman stacked up from fans and rival teams.
Millwall are devastated at the loss of owner and chairman John BerylsonCredit: Getty
The American businessman first became involved at Millwall 17 years agoCredit: Getty
The club’s late supremo was also a philanthropist, mainly supporting educationCredit: Getty
The Lions said the American businessman – who leaves a wife, Amy, and three children – passed away on Tuesday morning.
West Ham, Derby, Portsmouth and Bournemouth were amongst the first clubs to send condolences but dozens more followed in a huge outpouring of respect.
A lengthy statement from Millwall included: “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.
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“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.”
The club said Berylson had “presided over some of the greatest moments in Millwall’s history” since first becoming involved in 2006.
He appointed Kenny Jackett as his first manager in 2007, and stuck with him all the way through until 2013.
Berylson oversaw his beloved Londoners reach the semi-finals of the FA Cup in 2013, and then the quarters in 2017 and 2019.
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The Lions also achieved promotion to the Championship under his tenure in 2017.
League chiefs released a statement saying: “The EFL is shocked and saddened by the news and sends its deepest condolences to John’s family and everyone connected with Millwall.”
And tributes from ex-players as well as other clubs continued to flow in.
Former Millwall right-back Alan Dunne said: “My deepest condolences to not only my chairman for many years but also friend.
“John was a gentleman who put Millwall back on the map. What he has done for the club will always be remembered and can only thank him for everything he done for me and MILLWALL.”
Ex-Lions striker Steve Morison told talkSPORT: “I don’t believe it, I can’t quite get my head around it.
“Everything in that statement is spot on. He’s someone who gave me my chance, as well as the manager.
“He’s the one person in football who’s been constant and positive.
“It’s absolutely heartbreaking. Anyone who knows him won’t have a bad word to say about him.”
“He’s shown the rest of the Championship how to run a football club… it’s going to hit so many people at the club. He’s not a chairman that doesn’t see anybody, he’s there.
“He knew everyone’s family, he knew everyone’s kids. He was a personable person… his wife and his kids were fantastic as well.”
Berylson, a former Harvard graduate, was also known for his philanthropy – donating to good causes such as education.
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The club also announced that a book of condolence will be opened at Millwall’s ground, The Den, on Wednesday.
The Lions are in shock after the death of a ‘truly great man’Credit: Action Images – Reuters
Millwall’s full statementThe Lions released the news of John Berylson’s death with a long and touching message on social media. Here is the complete statement.
“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
.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.
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 Football Club 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.
“For those who wish to pay their respects, a book of condolence, which will be shared with the Berylson family, will be opened at The Den from 11am on Wednesday 5th July.
“Those who cannot make it in person to The Den will be able to sign an online book of condolence, which will be available on millwallfc.co.uk in due course.
“Rest in peace, John, and thank you. You were loved and adored.” More
