Millwall confirm James Berylson will become chairman after tragic death of dad
Millwall have confirmed that the son of former chairman John Berylson will succeed his late father, who tragically died last week.
American businessman Berylson was killed aged 70 due to injuries sustained in a car crash on Tuesday, July 4 when his vehicle overturned and hit a tree before falling into a ravine. Having been the chairman of Millwall since 2007 and overseeing some of their greatest moments in recent memory, his son James will now take up the role, the Championship club have confirmed.
The 42-year-old says that he's "passionate" about Millwall and wants to continue his dad's legacy, with the club planning a tribute ahead of their first home game of the new season against Bristol City on Saturday, August 12.
"It is with sincere and immeasurable pride that I take on the chairmanship," James told Millwall's website. "It is what my dad wanted, and I am so thankful for his mentorship since I joined the board of directors in 2010 and blessed by his trust and faith in me.
"This will mark the start of a new era, one in which we will strive to fulfil dad's legacy." He added: "On behalf of the Berylson family, an enormous and very heartfelt thank you to everyone for the outpouring of love and affection for dad following the tragic events of last week.
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"This remains a very challenging time for us but the many thousands of messages of support we received from our Millwall family have been a source of tremendous comfort.
"I have witnessed incredible moments of joy, drama and success at The Den alongside my dad and these memories will last a lifetime. From this day forward, though, it is about creating new ones."
Clubs and fans from across the country paid tribute to Berylson and sent their condolences following his death which occurred while he was back home in the United States. Millwall's first-team and under-21 squads, club management and staff gathered at their home stadium, The Den, on Monday morning to remember him.
John Berylson died at the age of 70 in a car crash (Action Foto Sport/NurPhoto via Getty Images)Manager Gary Rowett and long-serving members of staff began the service by laying flowers outside of the club's reception. A moment's silence was then observed.
Millwall also wrote in a statement of remembrance: "Under John's passionate leadership and guidance, Millwall has enjoyed tremendous success and stability. Since first becoming involved in the club in 2006, he has presided over some of the greatest moments in Millwall's history, and his influence in providing the platform for those was immeasurable.
"John continued to speak eagerly about the new season and his vision for the future, and any success moving forward will be in his memory and honour. It will be his legacy.
"John revelled in the club's underdog status and mentality. He related strongly to such values and identity and adored Millwall supporters. He was fiercely loyal to all his staff, and both they and the fan base will miss him beyond measure."
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