Tributes have been paid to former Yeovil Town player, coach and backroom staff member Stuart Housley who has sadly died.
The family of the 72-year-old, who played nearly 400 times for the club in two spells between 1969 and 1980, confirmed his passing on social media.
In a touching post on Facebook, they wrote: “The family wanted to let you know that our hero, dad, grandad, brother and loyal husband of Christina has made his final transfer in to heaven with his wife by his side, peacefully last night to join other football legends. See you on the far post.”
The former youth team manager who held various backroom roles under a succession of managers had been in hospital since the end of July.
He was a major part of the club’s most successful period which saw them win the the FA Trophy, promotion to the Football League in Gary Johnson’s first spell at Huish Park and then promotion to the Championship under Johnson again in 2013.
The news led to a outpouring of tributes for the popular former winger from the club, supporters and players past and present at Huish Park.
In a statement, the club said it was “deeply saddened” to hear the news of Stuart’s passing, adding: “Stuart was an excellent servant to the club.”
Former midfielder Ed Upson posted: “Rest in peace Stu, a real legend” with former Glovers’ captain Joe Edwards adding: “One of the best! Rest in peace Stuey! What a great man he was.”
Ex-Glovers’ goalkeeper, Chris Weale, who came through the club’s youth academy at the same time, said: “Thanks for all the advice and coaching over the years, from Green Machine as a kid to first team success you were there all the way.”
Everyone at the Gloverscast sends our deepest condolences to Stuart’s family and friends at this difficult time. He will always be remembered as a true legend of the club.
All at Yeovil Town Football Club are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of club legend, Stuart Housley.#YTFC
— Yeovil Town F.C. (@YTFC) August 25, 2021