In Memory of Malcolm Miller
It is with great sadness that we must report the passing of Malcolm Miller, long serving Council Member and former Treasurer of Hertfordshire FA
Malcolm dedicated the greater part of his life to the running of the grassroots game, giving countless hours across more than five decades to the administration of local football.
His initial involvement in the administration side of the game began at club level in the early 1970s, where he was involved in the running of both Rye Park who played on a Saturday and Sheffield House Rangers who were a Sunday side.
With a growing reputation as a capable administrator, his skills were in demand and would soon be drafted in to support the rapidly expanding Waltham Sunday League, where he would go on to serve as Treasurer and Vice Chair through to its eventual dissolution in 2016.
Tony Sharples, who worked alongside Malcolm on the League’s Committee said of him:
“He was just so well organised, with fixtures and results across a dozen divisions, which of course in the early days were all paper based. Malcolm also had a great manner in dealing with any disciplinary issues that arose. He was so calm and considered in the way he handled everything, people just couldn’t argue with him and matters got resolved”.
Malcolm joined Hertfordshire FA in 1990, utilising his league experience serving on various committees. He later took up the role of Treasurer, a position which he held for over 11 years and was subsequently made a Life Vice President of the Association.
In recent years, Malcolm’s commitment to serving the game remained undimmed and despite health issues he remained a fixture in the turnstiles at County Cup finals, greeting the spectators as they entered the ground come rain or shine.
In addition to his outstanding abilities as an administrator which gave so many the opportunity to play the game, Malcolm will long be remembered for his friendly manner, diligent nature and absolute dedication to grassroots football.
On learning of his passing Graham Phillips, Chair of Hertfordshire FA said:
“We are deeply saddened to hear that our dear friend Malcolm has passed away. Everyone at Hertfordshire FA sends their sincere condolences to his family and friends and our thoughts are with them at this most difficult time. His dedication to making grassroots football happen for more than 50 years will not be forgotten”.
Karl Lingham, CEO of Hertfordshire FA added:
“Malcolm was such an asset to Hertfordshire football, with his diligent efforts behind the scenes helping to keep the game in the county running smoothly over a great many years. Unfailingly polite, helpful and kind, he is fondly remembered by the staff he worked with and his loss will be keenly felt by all those who knew him”.
Funeral Arrangements
For those wishing to pay their respects, details of funeral arrangements will be added in due course.
Malcolm Miller receiving an Award marking 40 years of service to grassroots football from Eddie King in 2013