Tributes have been paid to David Brown, a former Blackburn Rovers director and local businessman, who passed away on May 10 at the age of 82 after a battle with Alzheimer’s disease.

David Brown became a director at Blackburn Rovers in the early 1970s, reportedly the youngest in the football league at that time. He played a crucial role in the establishment and growth of the Blackburn Rovers 100 Club and later served as the club’s chairman from 1979 to 1982. During his tenure, the club achieved promotion from the Third Division in the 1979-80 season under Howard Kendall and narrowly missed out on promotion to the top flight the following season on goal difference.

In addition to his contributions to football, David was the former managing director of the wallpaper business Graham and Brown, which has factory shops in Blackburn and Padiham. He dedicated his career to the family business, only resigning in 2018. His son Ian Brown, who worked alongside him, expressed how much his father will be missed by many, highlighting his father’s popularity among staff and fans alike.

Ian reflected on his father’s character, saying, “He was a really likeable guy with a great sense of humour. We travelled the world together and played a lot of sport, including golf, together. He was great company. He was a great dad and I couldn’t have asked for any more in a father. He is going to be missed by a lot of people.” Ian added that the funeral will celebrate a life well-lived, expecting both tears and laughter, as his father was known for his humor and fun nature.

David’s daughter, Elizabeth Talbot, echoed these sentiments, describing her father as a “reliable and generous” man who always had time for everyone. She noted his enduring love for Blackburn Rovers and the people he worked with. “He loved the people that worked for him and he loved Blackburn Rovers. He remembered Rovers more or less until the end,” she said. Elizabeth also shared how overwhelming it has been to receive such kind tributes, highlighting her father’s brilliant sense of humour and memorable laugh.

Rovers fans have been leaving messages of condolence, with one fan describing David as a “family man and a true gentleman” and another recalling him as a great chairman who cared deeply about the Rovers. A spokesperson for Blackburn Rovers extended their condolences, noting David’s significant contributions to the club during his time as chairman.

David is survived by his wife Sylvia Brown. His funeral will be held at 11 am on Friday, June 7, at Blackburn Cathedral. All those wishing to pay their respects are invited to attend.

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