All of us at FGR are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of John Whiffen, aged 83, one of the most dedicated and loyal supporters this club has ever known.
John began watching Forest Green Rovers in 1997, standing in the corner by the Social Club at The Lawn.
What followed was nearly 30 years of unwavering dedication, home and away, through every division and every chapter of this club’s story.
Alongside his wife Pat, to whom he was married for over 60 years, John was a constant presence on the terraces, on the Travel Club coach, and at the heart of the FGR supporter community.
He was the chairman of The Green Club, first at The Lawn and then at The New Lawn, a supporters’ group that raised vital funds for the football club and brought fans together over Debbie’s famous hot lunches in the old Boardroom.
When The New Lawn opened, it was John who led the volunteers who painted its interior, donating countless hours of his own time to help prepare the club’s new home.
It was exactly the kind of quiet, selfless contribution that defined him.
John and Pat were Travel Club members from the very beginning, travelling to the vast majority of home and away fixtures across three decades.
In 2024, they were named FGR Supporters of the Year, awarded the Brian Fream Trophy in recognition of a lifetime of loyalty that needed no introduction to anyone who knew them.
John had struggled with his health in recent months but remained committed to the club he loved, signing up once again with Pat for season tickets and Travel Club membership this season.
He passed away at home, surrounded by his family.
Further details on how we will commemorate John’s life will be shared in due course.
Phil Butterworth, FGR Vice Chairman:
“John Whiffen was a stalwart FGR fan. Together with his wife Pat, they have followed the club home and away for decades. John can be credited with organising supporters to paint the interior of The New Lawn before it opened, a huge voluntary task. He was a fine man, a true gentleman in every way. I feel privileged to have known him. John will be sorely missed. Our thoughts are with Pat and his family.”
Our deepest condolences go to Pat, his sons, his granddaughter, and all of John’s family and friends. 💚
