David Moores, the former chairman and owner of Liverpool FC, died at the age of 76.
Moores served as Liverpool chairman from 1991 to 2007, and after selling his controlling ownership in the club in 2007, he became honorary life president.
During his 16-year career, Liverpool won 10 major titles, including the Champions League in 2005.
Moores’ death comes just weeks after the passing of his loving wife of 39 years, Marge.
For more than a half-century, the Moores family maintained a dominant ownership in Liverpool, with David taking over at Anfield in September 1991.
He supervised over Liverpool’s admission into the newly formed Premier League in 1992, with chief executive Rick Parry, and oversaw the managerial appointments of Roy Evans, Gerard Houllier, and Rafael Benitez during his stay at the club.
However, in 2007, Moores sold his controlling shareholding to Tom Hicks and George Gillett in order to attract external investment to help construct a new ground.
It was a move that rapidly went sour, with the Americans finally thrown out after a heated boardroom struggle after significant fan resistance and RBS calling in a £237 million loan ended in a sale to New England Sports Ventures (who subsequently became current owners Fenway Sports Group).
Moores came to Anfield for the first time in a decade in December 2019 to see Jurgen Klopp’s Liverpool defeat Everton 5-2.
“The thoughts of everyone at Liverpool FC are with David’s family and friends at this difficult time,” said a statement from the club.
Former player and manager Kenny Dalglish wrote on Twitter: “Marina and I are both very saddened by the passing of David Moores.
“He was a loyal Liverpool fan whose dream came true when he was appointed chairman, and he did a tremendous amount to help the club.
“Our condolences go to his family. He’ll be greatly missed by all who knew him. RIP.”
Former Reds striker Owen – who scored the winner in the 2001 FA Cup final against Arsenal described the news as ‘heartbreaking’.
“RIP Chairman,” the ex-England forward said. “I know for a fact that all the lads thought the world of you.”
Meanwhile, Carragher tweeted: “RIP Mr Chairman. When I think of the good times I had at @LFC, David Moores was at the heart of it.
“He will be sorely missed. Thank you for what you did for me & the club.”
