Bill Kenwright passes away: Everton's longest-serving chairman dies aged 78

Kenwright, who was Everton's longest-serving chairman for more than a century, succeeded Philip Carter in 2004.

Everton chairman Bill Kenwright has died at the age of 78, the Premier League club said on Tuesday. Kenwright, who was Everton's longest-serving chairman for more than a century, succeeded Philip Carter in 2004.

Everton's Iranian owner Farhad Moshiri (L) and Everton's English chairman Bill Kenwright lay a wreath in honour of the victims of the Leicester City helicopter crash ahead of the English Premier League football match (AFP)

He passed away peacefully on Monday night, surrounded by his family and loved ones, Everton said. "The club has lost a chairman, a leader, a friend, and an inspiration," the club statement read.

In his 19 seasons as chairman, Everton secured 12 top eight finishes, including fourth place in 2005.

They also reached the 2009 FA Cup final and qualified for European competitions on six occasions.