In Memory of
Graham Taylor OBE

15 Sep 1944 - 12 Jan 2017

Graham Taylor OBE

Online Donations Received: £7196.10

Our family have chosen the National Memorial Arboretum as we knew that this was an organisation that meant so much to Graham.

Throughout his life he had tremendous respect and admiration for all members of the armed forces.

He took part in the British Legion cycle race from London to Paris in September 2010 and also supported and attended numerous functions connected with the British Legion and the NMA as well as visiting wounded service personnel in hospital.

As a true family man himself he always felt sincere emotion for the loved ones left behind too, shedding tears for their heartbreak.

He had visited the NMA several times during the time that he lived in the Midlands.

We will take comfort in knowing that the NMA will be able to continue their amazing work which will without a shadow of a doubt help Graham to rest in peace.

Tributes Received

PAUL LANE

Thank you Graham for so many great Watford memories. Your warmth and kindness shone through. You'll never be forgotten

David Nelson

So many wonderful memories, thank you.

Hilda WFC Supporters White Goods Apprecia

5 of Group who sit together at Home Games each donated our Tales from the Vicarage Books to make a complete set. These were generously purchased by Keith Foskett a fellow WFC fan\r\nAlso after the sale of a last minute spare away match ticket all proceeds were kindly donated by Janice and Gary\r\nThere is no doubt our Watford family is missing you GT you made our club what it was and gave it its soul for that reason you may be no longer with us but you\'ll NEVER BE FORGOTTEN\r\n#thankyouGT

Hilda WFC Southern C ON BEHALF OF WFC SC

we are donating all money raised from the raffle held during the At Your Place event of the WFC Regional Supporters Group, Southern Counties Hornets>\r\nThe funds are donated in memory of our beloved Graham Taylor who touched the hearts of everyone especially those who had the pleasure of meeting him\r\nWe are all eternally grateful for everything he did for our club, his memory lives on forever.\r\n#thankyouGT

Frances Lynn

I was lucky enough to meet Graham on a number of occasions and every time, I came away feeling happy and inspired. He was a lovely man who will be greatly missed by us all,

Tom Walley

At the end of the day good boss but a great friend, happy days \r\nPauline, Tom, Simon, Samantha and Sarah x

Joel Moody

Donation on behalf of Watford Internet Football Club.
Thank you GT.

Jamie Allam

Legend

James Aylott

Graham enriched my life like he did so many others, thanks for leaving so many wonderful memories. God Bless.

Andrew Orrell

A man who i never met, yet had more effect on my life then most others.
RIP Graham.

Jo-Anne Smithson

Thanks to the WFC Family Enclosure, Graham changed my life and that of my family's for ever - as a teenage girl in the 80s, I would never have got into football without that & it's a love which has shaped both me and my sons as a result. Graham was a true gentleman - one of a kind - and the love he had for his family has shone through especially since his passing. I am now going to make sure that I make as much of my 'dash' as he undoubtedly did of his. My love to all his family.

Gavin Lee

My brother and I spoke to Graham in an empty Rookery once, he told us Kevin Miller had a lovely pair of legs and Nathan Lowndes was as light as a (expletive) feather - Both excellent observations! He seemed as genuine, friendly and in love with football as he did on TV. A true Watford legend and thoroughly nice man, he will be sorely missed.

Anonymous

Thank you GT for the memories. You built the foundations of a football club that I have supported and loved for the past 20 years.

Anthony Ryzman

I am very happy to donate to Graham's chosen charity. I started supporting Watford a few years after Graham became manager at 9 years old. Those years were the most enjoyable and memorable as a Watford supporter. Thanks Graham. And all the best to your family.

Geoff Young

So sad for your loss... R.I.P Graham- Thanks for the wonderful memories.

Ian Wilson

One of the very best people I have known and I had that privilege for more than 25 years - also one of the funniest - much, much missed.

Neil Duncanson

Graham was one of the nicest, kindest, most honest and honourable men I have ever met in football.
Neil Duncanson
Producer – Graham Taylor: An Impossible Job

Rod Fletcher

A privilege to have played with you at Lincoln City F.C.
Rod Fletcher

Anonymous

A pleasure to have known and worked with you Graham.

Christopher How

A real gentleman and a lovely person I have met a few times as a player kit sponsor in the 80's. Also met him at the players nights we use to have at the end of the seasons in the 80's. Always had a smile and had time to shake your hand and have a chat especially if he had met you before. I will never forget Graham, I will have him in my thoughts every time I go to a match as a season ticket holder at Vicarage road. Thankyou for the many great memories Graham. RIP.

Michelle Sarsons

Graham a lovely man who will be sadly missed by so many. May you RIP
Michelle, Andy, Ryan and Kieran Sarsons

Adam Leventhal

This donation is courtesy of the various authors who feature in Tales from the Vicarage volumes 1 & 2. \r\nThe kindness that was shown by Graham to the community of Watford and the energy and excitement that he brought to the football club will never be forgotten.\r\nThanks for the many happy memories.

Sheila Farebrother

So sad for your loss... R.I.P Graham

Nigel Gibbs

In fondest memory of The Boss.
Thanks for everything.
Nigel and Heidi Gibbs

Nigel Wright

Thank you for those wonderful years that you gave to us all. A lifetime's worth of memories crammed into a short era. Your legacy will never be forgotten at WFC. God rest your soul, RIP Mr Taylor x

David Newton

In memory of a great man and manager.

Darren Ward

Thank you so much!!x

Allyson Mee

We were privileged to have Graham as part of our football family as well as our personal family.
A true gentleman; kind, caring and with a great sense of humour. We enjoyed many Italian parties together!
Your life was cut short, but what an amazing legacy you have left behind.
You will be missed by so many. Our thoughts and prayers are with your dear family at this time, Rita, Joanne, Karen and your amazing grandchildren. With our love Allyson and Sergio xx

Alison Buckenham

My thoughts are with Joanne and her family at this sad time. I met Graham only a handful of times, but he became my 'claim to fame' having received a kiss at Jo's wedding. I knew little of football but remember him telling me that Norwich played a nice game when he heard where I was from. A lovely man.

Dean Koch

Graham, words can't really express what you did for the football club of, and the town of, Watford, and how much you mean to us, the supporters. You gave us countless unforgettable memories and took to us places we never dreamed were possible. You were one of the finest managers this country has ever produced and an even finer person. Your legacy will live on but unfortunately we will never see any one like you again Graham. You are deeply missed. There's only ONE Graham Taylor! X

John Wragg

In memory of Graham and to say thank you for the years of friendship

Anonymous

A wonderful man and an honour to call him our friend.

Antony Stivala

Sending my sincere condolences to the family of a true Watford legend who was responsible for so many happy memories over the years and for building the foundations for the football club we have the privilege to enjoy today. RIP GT - an immensely sad loss tempered by the acknowledgement of a life well lived with so much to be celebrated.

Anonymous

A true legend and a true gentleman. RIP

David Tolley

Our deepest sympathies go to Rita and the family.

Lynne Smith

We were lucky enough to experience GT - the legendary manager of our football team, but more importantly Graham was a friend.
Many memories have been created with him and his beloved family, for which we are truly thankful.
A truly good man, with a very warm heart and that wonderful twinkle in his eyes.
Thank you for being part of our lives. Much love John & Lynne Smith

Sophie Williams

As a serving soldier and a Watford FC season ticket holder I thank Graham Taylor for everything he did for Watford FC and for the National Memorial Arboretum. You were, are and always will be Mr Watford FC and will be sorely missed. RIP xx

Sheila Smith

A wonderful friend to Geoff & I, who will be sadly missed

Matthew Iveson

A real Gentleman who brought so much joy to so many with his humour, good nature and warmth.
Deepest sympathies to Rita and the family - you should be so proud of such a wonderful man.

David and Angela Gabbitass

Graham was a remarkable man and we are proud to have known him.

Anonymous

For someone I met only a few times I cant really describe my feeling of loss at this moment. Its strange how someone you barely knew can affect you in this way. A man I had the utmost respect for and helped many including me to understand that you have to do your best with what you have to offer. Thats what Graham has left with me. I will definitely look to make the most of my dash as you have done so well. Thanks GT for everything.

Michael Taylor

Graham was a true inspiration and will be greatly missed.
With love,
Mike,Sue and family and Derek

Vicki Bailey

In memory of the 'rebellious' GT xx

Ed Coan

A massively positive influence in my life. So much for which I'm grateful to GT. One of those very rare people who made everyone feel like his special friend. Can't really quantify how much we'll all miss him, but especially his family.

Phil & Zoe Wye

I spent 12 years at BBC Radio 5 Live Football & in that time Graham was a wonderful football summariser to look after, work alongside, travel with & share laughs with.
It was such a pleasure to have got to know him & a real privilege to have gained the trust of such a thoughtful, committed, knowledgeable & fun-loving gentleman over those years.
Heartfelt wishes & best regards from my wife Zoe & myself to the Taylor family.
Phil Wye

Russ Barker

I may have only met him a few times, but he was a gentleman each and every time, and spoke so nicely to my son earlier in the season.
He was a great man and will be sadly missed.
Our condolences to the whole of Graham's family on this very sad loss.

Gary Porter

A Great Manager. An even Greater Man. Thank you Graham for giving me my opportunity
Our deepest sympathies go out to Rita and family.
Gary, Karin,Caitlin and Kiara Porter.

Timothy Shaw

A true inspiration to everyone who knew him, and one of life's gentleman. Graham, you will be greatly missed and much loved.

Anonymous

A lovely way to remember a good man

Alan Shearer

Forever grateful for my first England cap.
A real gentleman.
Alan Shearer

Madeleine Wellings

Thanks for all the happy memories.

Keith & Carole Busby

Uncle Graham,
I have always been very proud to call you my Uncle. Your achievements on and off the pitch have always been a great inspiration to me and my family.
God bless,
Keith, Carole, Jenny & Lee xxx

LORETTA FULTON

Thanks for many happy memories, you will be sorely missed.
Loretta & Keith xx

Alan Morgan

A sudden end to a 65 year friendship. Always remembered for everything you did for myself and my family, and your wonderful achievements in a great and inspirational life. Never to be forgotten Graham.
Alan, Sue and family

Keith Michaels

I am so privileged to have known Graham Taylor. A great football man but moreover, one of the most warm, decent & honest people I have known in my life. I loved his sense of humour (and the odd practical joke). I will always treasure fond memories of great times away with England and the BBC. Rest in peace Graham.

Debbie Wright

Thank you for being my Godfather.x
With love and respect.x
Hope you're up there with dad talking football.
Debbie xxx

Stephen Harris

Thank you for the wonderful memories you and your teams have given me and my family. Watford FC legend always and forever.

Valerie Hatcher

Rest in peace Graham we will miss your friendship and the cheek that went with it. Val and Ian.

Anonymous

Thank you Graham for your support, humour and friendship during all those Saturday afternoons. A true and honest gentleman. RIP.

Philip Bryan

Despite your best efforts, I never really grasped the finer points of the game!
It was a great pleasure to work with you - I will miss you.

John & Catherine Alexander

We will miss you loads Graham with love Cathy & John xx

Steven Harrison

To a man that shaped my playing and coaching career but most of all to a man who described me as a friend.This was a great honour to myself and my family.Rest in peace Gaffa.

Julie and Tony Phillips

A true gentleman, you will be sadly missed.

Rob Smith

From WFC CSE Trust

Helen Proudlove

We have wonderful memories of Graham and are so proud of him and everything that he achieved. He was one of life's great characters and respected by all who knew him. He was such a lovely and kind Brother-in-Law and Uncle and will be very sadly missed by us all. The Proudlove Family xxx

Diane Keeble

Thanks for all the happy memories, especially Thursday night teas in Grimsby. You were always a special friend to my late husband, Brian, and I.
You will be sadly missed.

Debbie Sherwood

The memories you have given ,the advise and caring words ,will stay with me forever from this truly wonderful man .

Craig Sherwood

Thank you for being my freind and all the memories I will always have because of you.

Jenny Mintoft

So many memories! Such an honour to have met him on many occasions at the Vic - his spiritual home!!

Graham Busby

Uncle Graham,
A true gent and you were an inspiration to us all.
R.I.P
Graham,Jayne,Laura and Jodie

Eddie Busby

Graham has gone but will never be forgotten, he was a wonderful brother in law.
God bless and R.I.P
Love, Hilda and Eddie

Dean Sherwood

A huge inspiration to me that I'll take with me throughout my life. Thank you for the memories. Thank you for the love. Rest In Peace GT x

Stephen Sherwood

Thank you for giving me the chance to live out my childhood dreams. Such incredible memories. A lot of laughs , a lot of hard work. A truly amazing human being who always had time for those around him . Thankyou !

Richard Bevan

Graham Taylor was one of football’s true gentleman. He was an inspiration to many managers and coaches throughout his career and his capacity for innovation earned him richly deserved success. Graham’s influence extended to all levels of the game and we will miss him greatly.
League Managers Association

MICHELLE TUBB

It was a real pleasure to work with you for so many years despite the terrible jokes! You will be sorely missed by so many people, Michelle (Ives) x

Ann Barling

You will be sorely missed by so many people Graham. You made me laugh, you embarrassed me and you educated me on Doris Day! Your life was cut short too soon. RIP
Love Ann Barling (was Watt) xx

Don Cowper

Whenever we asked you to give your time and support to Show Racism the Red Card you did so willingly for which we will be forever grateful.

Karen Austin

In admiration of a wonderful human being and inspiring football manager. With love and thanks for the amazing memories from the Craddock family of Watford FC fans.

Emma Longley

Graham........warm, welcoming and witty. The glow of happiness when you were telling stories of family was truly endearing. You were genuinely grateful for the life you had and your admiration for those less fortunate, following their dream or a war hero never went unsaid. May you rest in peace Emma, Mike and Liam xxx

Paul Holloway

Thank you Graham for the time you gave me and my family. I loved you for the success you brought to my football team but that was nothing compared to your kindness & generosity. You were a great football manager but more importantly a wonderful person. There will always be only one Graham Taylor

Nigel and Glennis Bristow

A great football manager and an even better person, what you achieved in the football community and further afield was truly amazing.
My wife, myself, the Watford Family...truly heartbroken.
One incredibly special person to so many of us. Thank you Graham for everything.

Clive Wilson

With deepest sympathy for all Graham's family and feeling privileged to have known the true gent that Graham was.

Mark Cope

Thank you for the great football memories you made at Watford FC and putting the town on the map. You will be sadly missed. RIP Graham

Derrick Williams

With much love, respect and thanks from everyone involved and helped by the charity KitAid.
We are more grateful than words can express for the suppo

Anonymous

Thank you for all the memories - Truly great times

STUART Sampson

Thank you Graham for making my childhood watching Watford FC such a memorable and happy one. I have not felt such loss before, other than for family member, but that says everything about the man you were and those whose lives you touched having met you.

Anonymous

Thank you for answering my letters when I was a child, for the incredible journey you led us on, through sheer grit and amazing management talent. My family and I are forever indebted to you. I wish my grandfather could have witnessed all the great things you did for our Watford. The outpouring across the media will hopefully reinforce to your family how much you meant to the country. The two clubs with the highest ever pts total under 2pts for a win? LCFC and WFC. Both times managed by you. XXX

Bob Hill

Graham, Without knowing it, you taught me so much, about life, honesty and fair play. And most of all, about consideration and care of people and how to behave in a fair and positive manner. I am devastated at your passing, but you leave me with so many happy memories of our wonderful football club which came to life when you arrived. Thank you and I will miss your wisdom and common sense of the great game and life. God bless you and all the wonderful times you gave to the people of Watford

Andrew Stockwell

Thank you for the amazing memories and the journey from Division 4 to Europe and an FA Cup final. Truely amazing and never to be repeated. I was lucky enough to be part of it.

Sharon Atkins

To my beloved uncle, a lovely and caring man whose life was cut short. Always in our thoughts. God bless xxxx

Katharine Manning

With immense gratitude to Graham for so many happy Watford memories, from the Luke family

Deb Toms

Not just a football manager but a true gent and a damn decent and genuine man of the people. The world will be a worse place without you in it. Here's hoping there is room for two God's in Heaven. G?T. Golden Boy Forever xxx

Chris Elliott

Thanks for some great football memories at Watford

Christine Messenger

You are a legend Graham you will never be forgotten .Thank you for all you have achieved with Watford FC.
RIP
Chris Messenger

Kevan Gray

Graham I have great memories of you Sir and 53 years of Watford memories. R.I.P. Sir Graham Taylor.

Geoff Seal

You changed both my club and my life.fondly remember by all who knew you.Thank you.

Ann Dean

From the Deans and Beevors of Bushey, God keep Graham with you forever. A good man should never be forgotten

Wendy Lamb

A true family man and friend to everyone. Will be sadly missed. Condolences going out to the wonderful family in which he has left behind.
Jason, Wendy, Jack and Chad Lamb
xx

Sylvia Durant

Such a sad loss, such a wonderful man.

Laurence Goodman

It is difficult to think of any one person beyond my immediate family and friends that touched my life in a more important and positive way than GT.

Paul Meakins

Thank you for the priceless childhood memories of watching Watford in the early 80's. You will be missed by all of us

Michael Thomas

Graham, you will be so missed. Words are not enough to express the impact you have had on mine and so many others lives. Whether you knew people well or just as part of the wider Watford family, you simply made each one of us a better person. Thank you for the best of times and for reaching for the stars. Michael & Brian Thomas
P..S. I bet heaven has a really good football team now.

John&Alex Collins

Thanks for the memories

Matt Ballantine

Thank you Graham. Words can't quite express the impact you had on so many people in Watford. You are missed.

Stuart Waggett

Open those golden gates for our Watford hero Graham 'God' Taylor. Thank you for all the memories, you will be missed more than you'll ever know. Waggs x

Heather Spencer

Thank you for everything you did for Watford, on and off the pitch. You will never be forgotten - a true club legend.

William Holman

Gentleman and legend, never forgotten.

Neil Herring

Thank you Graham, for all the great memories, of the most exciting and thrilling football i ever witnessed. It always annoyed me how we were tagged a long ball team, when we played with the two best wingers in the league!
Rest in peace
Neil Herring
Rest in peace Neil Herring

Anonymous

Thank You GT. You will be missed, Sir. #YouOrns

Kevin Folds

In memory of a man who gave so much to Watford FC

Patrick Fallon

Graham will be sadly missed. A great football manager and a true gentleman. RIP.