Chesterfield Owner Phil Kirk Dies Aged 59: Here's How!

Chesterfield Football Club and the wider football community are mourning the loss of their dedicated owner, Phil Kirk, who passed away today at age 59 after a brave and brief battle with inoperable cancer. Diagnosed earlier this year, his condition rapidly deteriorated, and he entered palliative care before succumbing to the illness.

A solemn statement from the club read:

“It is with great sadness that we announce that the club's owner, Phil Kirk, has died at the age of 59, following a short illness. Our thoughts are with Phil’s family and friends.” 

A Legacy of Stewardship and Passion

Together with his brother Ashley, Phil revitalized Chesterfield FC with an investment exceeding £1 million in 2022, empowering the club to rise from the National League and regain its place in the English Football League. Recalling his deep-rooted passion, Kirk was once quoted saying, “Why would we do it? Because it’s Chesterfield. There’s no other club, obviously, that we would have done this for.” 

Flood of Tributes from the Football World

Expressions of grief poured in from fans and figures across the football world. One supporter wrote simply, “A true legend, gone too soon,” while another posted, “RIP Phil, very sad news. My thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends.”

Renowned talkSPORT reporter Alan Biggs paid tribute:

“A man who will never be forgotten for his immense legacy to a town and its football team… a shining example of ownership in the football industry. Thoughts with Phil’s family, friends & all at the club.” 

Official Confirmation from the Club

The English Football League (EFL) also confirmed the grim news, stating that Chesterfield Football Club announced the passing of its owner with deep sadness. Additionally, reporter Rob Staton shared his condolences on X (formerly Twitter):

“Really sad news today. Thoughts with the family…” 

💙 The EFL is deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Chesterfield owner Phil Kirk, who has died at the age of 59.

Our thoughts are with his family, friends and everyone at the Club at this difficult time. pic.twitter.com/1sERzMyxOO

— EFL (@EFL) August 25, 2025

What Lies Ahead for Chesterfield FC

While this marks a deeply emotional moment for the club and its supporters, the presence of the Kirk family on the board provides continuity at a critical time. Their stewardship ensures that Phil’s vision—restoring community pride through football—continues to guide Chesterfield forward.

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