Tony Parkes – the man known as ‘Mr Blackburn Rovers’ after spending 34 years at Ewood Park – has died aged 76, having been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease in 2020
Alan Shearer and Kenny Dalglish have paid tribute after Blackburn Rovers announced the death of club legend Tony Parkes aged 76. Parkes, often referred to as ‘Mr Blackburn Rovers’, was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease in 2020.
Born in Sheffield, the former midfielder enjoyed a 34-year association with Rovers both as a player and coach, having joined them from Buxton in 1970. After making more than 400 appearances for Blackburn over 12 years, Parkes retired and went into coaching.
He worked alongside managers such as Roy Hodgson and Graeme Souness, and was part of Dalglish’s staff as the Lancashire side won the Premier League in 1995. Shearer led the line that season and it remains Blackburn’s most famous triumph.
Parkes also served as the club’s caretaker manager on six occasions between 1986 and 2004, taking charge of 74 matches. He later joined Blackpool and was installed as caretaker during the 2008-09 season, helping steer them to safety in the Championship.
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On Thursday, Blackburn said: “Blackburn Rovers are devastated to learn of the passing of Tony Parkes. A true club legend, often referred to as ‘Mr Blackburn Rovers’, Tony passed away last night at the age of 76.
“Everyone at Blackburn Rovers sends their deepest heartfelt condolences to Tony’s daughter Natalie and all his family and friends at this incredibly sad time. A special tribute will be held to celebrate Tony’s life and his outstanding contribution to the club’s history at Rovers’ final home game of the season against Leicester City on Saturday May 2.”
In response the sad news, Shearer posted on X: “RIP Tony. A great man.”
Chris Sutton, Shearer’s strike partner when Rovers lifted the title, also posted: “Really sad news to hear of Tony Parkes passing away. Tony was a great player and coach for Rovers with a wonderful sense of humour.
“He was Mr Blackburn and will be sorely missed. Thoughts and prayers go out to Natalie and the Parkes family.”
Dalglish added: “Very sad to hear about the passing of Tony Parkes. A fantastic man who I had the privilege of working alongside at Blackburn. Loyal, dedicated and someone who gave everything to the club. My thoughts are with his family and everyone connected with Blackburn Rovers. RIP Tony.”
In 2022, daughter Natalie launched a fundraiser in order to help with the costs of his care. She revealed how because of the brain disease, her dad would forget her, although he’d reminisce about his time at Ewood Park.
Natalie said following his diagnosis: “Things are a lot different now for my dad. We’ve had quite a few big changes over the last couple of years. It started slowly but it’s very apparent now – he recently had a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease.
“It’s changed a lot of things for my dad, his independence being the big one. He now no longer feels comfortable doing things by himself. He likes to be with me a lot.”
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