The former Manchester City player and chairman Francis Lee passed away at 79, leaving behind his wife and children.
His grieving family expressed their deep sorrow, emphasizing that his absence would be keenly felt following his early Monday morning departure.
Francis Henry Lee (April 29, 1944- October 2, 2023), also known as Franny Lee, was an accomplished English professional football player who played as a striker.
During his career, Lee represented clubs such as Bolton Wanderers, Manchester City, and Derby County.
Renowned for his speed and determination, he scored over 200 goals throughout his career.
Among his notable achievements, he won League Championship titles with Manchester City and Derby.
In 1994, Lee became the major shareholder and chairman of Manchester City, though he stepped down four years later.
In recognition of his contributions to English football, he was inducted into the English Football Hall of Fame in 2010
Francis Lee Wife, Gill Lee
The former football player Francis Lee tied the knot with Gill Lee, and together, they raised three children: Charlotte, Jonny, and Nik.
According to reports, he had a previous marriage with a woman named Jean Lee. They birthed two children named Gary Lee and Charlotte Clare.
Unfortunately, information regarding his marriages and their details remains undisclosed.
Francis died at the age of 79 after a long battle with lung cancer.
The statement from Manchester City read,
“Franny passed away in the early hours of this morning after a long battle with cancer. ”
“His wife Gill and children Charlotte, Jonny, and Nik say he will be sorely missed and would like to thank everyone for their kind words.”
Tribute To Man City Legend
Lee started his career at Bolton, scoring 92 goals in 182 games, before moving to City for a then club-record fee of £60k.
He played a pivotal role in helping them secure the First Division title in 1968 and claiming an FA Cup in 1969 and the European Cup Winners’ Cup in 1970.
The former striker consistently reigned as City’s top scorer for five consecutive seasons, from 1969/70 to 1973/74.
Moreover, he was the club’s Player of the Year in 1970 and won the Golden Boot award in 1971.
In 1974, Lee transferred to Derby and contributed significantly to their First Division title victory that same year.
“A club legend in every sense, Francis made 330 appearances for City, scoring 148 goals,” READ A CITY STATEMENT.
The entire Manchester City community extended their heartfelt condolences to Francis’s friends and family during this challenging time.
As stated by the club, flags around the Etihad Stadium and City Football Academy were flown at half-mast.
