Everton CEO Denise Barrett-Baxendale and director of football Kevin Thelwell have paid tribute to Ian Lavery, who has sadly passed away after a short illness.
The academy recruitment manager spent more than 20 years with his beloved Blues. Since the sad news of his passing, there have been tributes from fans and former acquaintances plus academy products who have made their way through the system.
Lavery was a passionate Evertonian and built relationships with staff, colleagues, players and their families during his time with the club.
And Barrett-Baxendale and Thelwell have led the tributes to their former colleague. "It is difficult to come to terms with the news that our Everton Family has lost our valued colleague, Ian Lavery," the CEO wrote.
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"Ian’s warmth as a person, his passion as an Evertonian and his dedication to his role and to the Academy made him hugely popular. He was simply a truly lovely man. The fact I am writing this, following the tragic news of his passing, is very hard to comprehend.
"And I know there will be so many people across the club feeling the exact same emotions today.
"Of course, the deepest condolences of everybody at the club go to his wife Lisa and his three wonderful children. I know there are no words that will be able to ease their pain – but I hope they can take some comfort from the knowledge Ian was so admired and respected."
Thelwell added: "In Ian Lavery, we have lost one of football’s good guys. He has done so much for so many, and Everton Football Club will be forever grateful.
"We are proud that he was one of our team. He will be greatly missed as a respected colleague, but also as a good friend to so many here. My deepest, heartfelt condolences go to Ian’s wife Lisa and his three children."
Former Everton U21s captain Morgan Feeney, who is Ian's nephew, tweeted: "Everton and our family have lost a true legend."
Ex-world cruiserweight boxing champion and Evertonian Tony Bellew tweeted: "My thoughts and prayers are with Ian Lavery’s family and friends today! A brilliant man who had done so much for Everton FC and all the kids who have come through the academy over the last 20 years! Lavo you are going to be missed and never forgotten."
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