David Gold, the co-chairman of West Ham United, passed away at the age of 86 after a short illness.
He was a lifetime supporter of the Hammers, and the team stated he died on Wednesday morning “peacefully” with his fiancee and daughters by his side.
In 2010, Gold and David Sullivan shared the chairmanship of West Ham. Gold had previously served as the chairman and co-owner of Birmingham City.
“I am extremely sad to hear this news,” said manager David Moyes.
“On behalf of all of the players and my staff at the training ground, I would like to extend our deepest sympathies to David Gold’s family at this very difficult time.
“Mr Gold was a regular visitor to Rush Green and always a source of great support and encouragement to myself and the players. It was clear that he had a genuine and sincere love for the club and was a true supporter at heart.
“He took a great interest in the people working behind the scenes and was always keen to help in any way he could. He will be greatly missed.”
Gold played for the club’s boys’ and youth teams while growing up immediately across from the Boleyn Ground, which served as West Ham’s former stadium.