Tony Parkes, the beloved figure known affectionately as 'Mr Blackburn Rovers', has died aged 76.
The Championship club confirmed the news on Thursday, paying tribute to a man whose dedication spanned more than three decades at Ewood Park.
Parkes served the Lancashire outfit for 34 years in total, first as a midfielder before transitioning into coaching roles following his retirement from playing.
"Blackburn Rovers are devastated to learn of the passing of Tony Parkes," the club stated.
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"A true club legend, often referred to as 'Mr Blackburn Rovers', Tony passed away last night at the age of 76."
Originally from Sheffield, Parkes carved out an impressive playing career at Blackburn between 1970 and 1982, turning out 350 times for the club.
When he hung up his boots, the midfielder remained at Ewood Park in a coaching capacity.
Tony Parkes pictured at Blackburn Rovers in 2020
|GETTY
His influence extended to the dugout on multiple occasions, stepping into the caretaker manager position six times between 1986 and 2004.
That remarkable commitment to a single club earned him the enduring nickname that would define his legacy.
Parkes departed in 2004 when Mark Hughes arrived and restructured the backroom staff, though a testimonial match was staged the following year to honour his extraordinary service.
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Tony Parkes managed Blackburn Rovers six times
|GETTY
Former England captain Alan Shearer was among those paying tribute to the club icon on social media.
"RIP Tony. A Great Man," the 55-year-old wrote on X.
Shearer spent four seasons at Ewood Park from 1992 to 1996, during which time Parkes was a constant presence at the club.
Supporters have also been calling for a lasting memorial, with many urging Blackburn to rename the Riverside Stand at their home ground in honour of the legendary figure.
Tony Parkes made 350 appearances for Blackburn Rovers as a player
|GETTY
The club has announced plans to celebrate Parkes' life and contribution at their season finale against Leicester City on Saturday 2nd May.
"Everyone at the club sends their deepest heartfelt condolences to Tony's daughter Natalie and all his family and friends at this incredibly sad time," Blackburn stated.
The news of his passing arrived just one day after Rovers secured their Championship status with a 3-1 victory over Sheffield United.
Goals from Yuki Ohashi and Ryoya Morishita on Wednesday sealed survival for Michael O'Neill's side, capping a late-season resurgence that kept the club in the second tier.