West Ham legend Billy Bonds diesOneFootballSun, November 30, 2025 at 11:53 AM UTC·1 min readWest Ham have that confirmed legendary club captain Billy Bonds has died.
Bonds fulfilled the roles of a player, coach and manager with the club and holds the record as their longest-serving first team figure with 799 appearances.
AdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisementDuring an on-field spell of 21 years, he skippered the Hammers to two FA Cups as well as a Second Division title before moving into coaching upon retirement.
He returned to Upton Park, initially under John Lyall as part of the club's youth setup before being appointed first-team manager in February 1990 for his third act.
Bonds steered West Ham back into the top flight in 1991 alongside a run to the FA Cup semi-final before guiding them to the newly formed Premier League in 1993.
He passed away peacefully on Sunday at the age of 79.
“We are heartbroken to announce that we lost our beloved Dad today," read a family statement.
AdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisement"He was devoted to his family and was the most kind, loyal, selfless, and loving person.
“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 will hold a period of appreciation for Bonds before Sunday's Premier League encounter with Liverpool at the London Stadium.
📸 Stephen Pond - 2019 Getty Images
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