Chris Bart-Williams, former Sheffield Wednesday and Nottingham Forest midfielder, passed away at the age of 49, leaving a substantial career legacy including 245 appearances for Nottingham Forest across all competitions.
News of his demise was announced in the United States where Bart-Williams was contributing his expertise as a coach and mentor. Sheffield Wednesday expressed deep sorrow, stating, “The passing of our former player Chris Bart-Williams deeply saddens us.”
Bart-Williams initiated his football journey with Leyton Orient, where he made a remarkable full debut by scoring in a 4-0 victory against Tranmere Rovers at just 16 years old.
In 1991, he became an integral part of Sheffield Wednesday, making over 100 appearances for the club. His journey continued at Forest in 1995, where he participated in over 200 matches before proceeding to play for Charlton and Ipswich Town.
In the face of his tragic loss, Nottingham Forest shared, “We are deeply saddened. Our thoughts extend to Chris’ family and friends at this immensely difficult time.”
Bart-Williams’ passing coincided with the death of Trevor Francis, a legendary figure who became Britain’s first £1m footballer when Forest signed him in 1979 from Birmingham City. Francis, who also managed Sheffield Wednesday, led Bart-Williams onto the pitch during the 1993 FA Cup final, a significant match which saw the Owls defeated by Arsenal after a replay.
Sheffield Wednesday added, “The untimely loss of Bart-Williams mirrors that of his former manager, Trevor Francis, marking this as one of the darkest days in our long history.”
Remembering Bart-Williams, former Sheffield Wednesday striker Mark Bright described him as “a superbly talented player, brimming with personality and charisma.” He added, “To know him was to love him. We extend our love to his family, friends, and former teammates.”
Former Sheffield Wednesday goalkeeper Kevin Pressman said, “Today is heartbreaking with the passing of Trevor Francis and my ex-teammate Chris Bart-Williams, both gone too soon. RIP Trevor and Chris.”
Bart-Williams’ notable contribution to Nottingham Forest includes securing the old First Division title in 1997-98, leading to a Premier League promotion.
Mark Crossley, former Forest goalkeeper, expressed on Twitter, “I’m deeply saddened by the passing of Trevor Francis and my ex-teammate Chris Bart-Williams. Their youthful departures are tragic. RIP Trevor and Chris.”
Darren Bent, ex-England striker and Bart-Williams’ teammate at Charlton, said, “RIP to my ex-teammate Chris Bart-Williams, extending my thoughts and prayers to his family and friends.”
Former Coventry and Liverpool striker David Speedie tweeted, “The devastating news of Chris Bart-Williams’ passing intensifies an already tragic day. My thoughts are with the family and friends of Chris at this difficult time. RIP Chris.”
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Chris Bart-Williams Death
Who was Chris Bart-Williams?
Chris Bart-Williams was a former professional footballer, known for his midfield positions with Nottingham Forest and Sheffield Wednesday. He began his career at Leyton Orient and later played for Charlton and Ipswich Town. After retiring from professional football, Bart-Williams served as a coach and mentor in the United States.
At what age did Chris Bart-Williams pass away?
Chris Bart-Williams passed away at the age of 49.
How many appearances did Chris Bart-Williams make for Nottingham Forest?
Chris Bart-Williams made a total of 245 appearances for Nottingham Forest in all competitions.
Where did Chris Bart-Williams start his football career?
Chris Bart-Williams started his professional football career at Leyton Orient, where he scored on his full debut as a 16-year-old.
How did Chris Bart-Williams contribute to Nottingham Forest’s success?
Chris Bart-Williams played a pivotal role in Nottingham Forest’s success, helping the club win the old First Division title in the 1997-98 season, which resulted in promotion to the Premier League.
Who else passed away on the same day as Chris Bart-Williams?
Trevor Francis, Britain’s first £1m footballer, and former manager of Sheffield Wednesday, passed away on the same day as Chris Bart-Williams. Francis had managed Bart-Williams during his tenure at Sheffield Wednesday and even brought him on as a substitute during the 1993 FA Cup final.
More about Chris Bart-Williams Death
- Chris Bart-Williams Career
- Nottingham Forest History
- Sheffield Wednesday History
- Trevor Francis Career
- Football’s £1m Milestone
- 1993 FA Cup Final
7 comments
not a day to remember for football, losing two greats. remember Chris playing for Ipswich, was a real talent.
Shocking day for us Wednesday fans, Chris and Trevor on the same day, it’s unbelievable. Watched Chris play at Hillsborough, such a talented player, RIP.
oh man… first Trevor Francis and now Chris Bart-Williams… what a dark day for English football. RIP both.
I remember watching Chris at Charlton, great player. Shocking news, thoughts with his family. RIP Chris.
Chris started his career at my club Leyton Orient, always remembered his debut goal. Sad day for football, RIP Chris.
this is devastating news. Chris was a legend at Forest, can’t believe he’s gone so young. RIP Chris, you’ll be missed.
So sad, way to young to go. Chris seemed like such a nice guy on and off the field. Sending love to his family.