West Ham United have announced the death of Billy Bonds, the club’s most enduring modern figure and one of English football’s most respected servants, at the age of 79.
The news was confirmed through a statement from Bonds’ family, shared by the club, prompting an outpouring of affection for a man whose name is synonymous with the spirit and identity of West Ham.
“We are heartbroken to announce that we lost our beloved Dad today,” the family said.
“He was devoted to his family and was the most kind, loyal, selfless, and loving person.
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"Dad loved West Ham United and its wonderful supporters with all his heart and treasured every moment of his time at the Club.
"He will always be in our hearts and eternally missed. We take comfort knowing that his legacy will live on forever.”
West Ham paid their own tribute in a message that captured the depth of feeling around the club.
Billy Bonds won the FA Cup twice during his time as a West Ham United player
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“It is with deep sadness and the heaviest of hearts that West Ham United announces the passing this morning of legendary player, coach and manager, Billy Bonds MBE,” the statement read.
“Rest in peace Billy, our courageous, inspirational, lion-hearted leader.”
The family indicated that Bonds died “peacefully”, though the cause of death has not been disclosed.
Fans have also paid their respects. One X user wrote: "Absolutely gutted. A legend in every meaning of the word. I was honoured to see this man play many times." A second stated: "He was Mr West Ham, beyond compare, never complained, never angled for moves...grafted from day one till the end...RIP Bill, so glad I caught the end of your playing days and your stint as manager coincided with me attending regularly for the first time."
Another penned the message: "Absolutely devastated. RIP Billy. Absolute hero."
A fourth stated: "Legend is a word used far too often nowadays, but one that absolutely applies to Billy. Absolutely gutted that such a huge part of West Ham’s history is no longer with us. Fantastic player, even better person. RIP Billy."
Billy Bonds pictured at West Ham in 2019
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And a fifth said: "Heartbreaking news. Probably the biggest legend our club has ever had. RIP."
Bonds made a club-record 799 appearances between 1967 and 1988, a span in which he captained the team, lifted two FA Cups, and earned an enduring status as the embodiment of resilience and humility.
After retiring as a player, he served as a youth coach and later as first-team manager, guiding West Ham to promotion in 1993.
Billy Bonds had a stand named in his honour at the London Stadium in 2014
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To generations of supporters, Bonds represented everything they considered authentic about the club: courage, loyalty, an unshowy toughness and absolute commitment to the badge.
His leadership was instrumental during some of West Ham’s most cherished eras, including the 1975 and 1980 FA Cup triumphs, and his influence extended long after he retired, mentoring younger players and remaining a visible presence at club events.
In 2014, the club renamed their East Stand at the London Stadium the Billy Bonds Stand - a rare honour that reflected the profound esteem in which he was held across the fanbase and within the wider game.
Bonds, who received an MBE for services to sport, was widely admired for both his competitive ferocity and his gentle manner off the pitch.
His combination of warrior-like determination and personal humility left an impression far beyond the East End.
West Ham have said the club will organise formal commemorations in due course and will support the Bonds family during this time.