Oxford City’s longest-serving chairman Brian Cox has died at the age of 83.
A well-known figure in football across Oxfordshire, Cox has been part of the Oxford City community for decades, after first taking over as chairman in 2003 but coaching at the club for years before.
Since then, he has been a figure who has worked tirelessly for the club and impacted the lives of a great number of staff and players. The extent of his hard work at the club saw him nicknamed “Mr. Oxford City” by club owner Justin Merrit following the announcement of his death.
“He dedicated much of his life to the club and to football in Oxfordshire and will be sorely missed by everyone associated with Oxford City FC”.
In the Hoops’ first fixture since the sad news, an away trip to Altrincham on the final day of City’s season, the players and 3,000 spectators inside the ground observed a minute's silence to pay tribute to Cox’s career.
Black armbands were also worn by both sides in a show of respect for the Chairman, but the game could not be won by City after a late first-half penalty from Altrincham split the teams at full-time.
Despite the Hoops’ recently confirmed relegation from the Vanarama National League, the club feels fortunate that Cox was part of the team when City got promoted last season, after the hard work he had put in over the years.
First Team manager Ross Jenkins reflected the club’s admiration for Cox in saying that “Brain was a true gentleman and was loved by everyone here at Oxford City”.
“Every great club has a great man behind the scenes, and Brain was certainly that man. Brain is, and forever will be, a club legend in my eyes. He will be greatly missed by everyone at Oxford City”.
Hoops’ photographer Mark Allen also spoke highly of Cox, remarking that “Brain was Oxford City to his core and went out of his way to make those working for the club and supporters alike feel both welcomed and valued”.
The remarkable career of Cox will live long in the memory of those at Oxford City, and his impact within the club will not be forgotten.
Rest in peace.