Jim Smith dead: Former Derby and Portsmouth manager dies aged 79
Smith is also regarded as a club legend at Oxford, a club he had three spells at
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Former QPR manager Jim Smith has died at the age of 79, the Championship club have announced.
After a long playing career, Smith made his mark as a manager including leading Birmingham into the First Division and taking Oxford into the top flight.
He also served as League Managers Association (LMA) chief executive before returning to management and leading Derby to the Premier League.
Smith was also inducted into the LMA Hall of Fame – 1,000 club.
LMA chairman Howard Wilkinson paid tribute to Smith, saying: “Jim and I have known each other since our teenage years, and I have been in his debt since the day he asked me to become player-coach at Boston United where I served my apprenticeship.
“I have so many fond memories of Jim as a football manager but foremost as a friend.
“He was intelligent, passionate, determined, honest and always great fun to be with. Never one to mince his words, he was a leader in the truest sense.
“He was liked and admired by everyone around him, truly an authentic, down-to-earth gentleman.”
LMA chief executive Richard Bevan added: “Jim was a true friend to the LMA and will be very sorely missed by his colleagues and friends.
“He was an inspiration to so many people throughout his career and a highly valued member of the LMA Hall of Fame – 1,000 Club in recognition of his contribution, achievement and legacy to the game.
“When Jim was approached by the LMA to become the association’s chief executive in 1995, he gladly accepted the responsibility, only relinquishing the position to return to management with Derby County.
“Our thoughts and sincere condolences are with his wife Yvonne and all his family and friends.”
Another of Smith’s former clubs, Newcastle, wrote on Twitter: “Newcastle United are sad to learn of the passing of Jim Smith, who was the Magpies’ manager between 1988 and 1991. He was 79.
“Our thoughts are with Jim’s family.”
While Oxford tweeted: “It is with great sadness that we must announce our former manager and £OUFC great Jim Smith has passed away.
“Our thoughts and love are with Jim’s family and friends.”
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments