Ernie Moss: Chesterfield FC legend and ‘hero in every sense of the word’ given unforgettable send-off

Ernie, Chesterfield FC’s all-time record goalscorer, passed away aged 71 last month following a long battle with dementia.

MORE: Live updates as Ernie Moss laid to rest

Much-loved Ernie – who made more than 450 appearances during three spells with the Spireites and scored a club record 192 goals – left Harold Lilleker and Sons funeral home in Whittington Moor shortly after 2pm.

Members of Ernie’s family were then collected and the funeral cortege passed the club’s former ground on Saltergate – where he scored so many goals over the years – before travelling to the Technique Stadium.

Outside the stadium, hundreds of people gathered to observe Ernie being taken on a lap of honour.

And at around 3pm, applause erupted in memory of Ernie – in what was an incredibly powerful moment (watch the Facebook Live video here).

Chants of ‘we love you Ernie, we do’ rang out as the rain went away and the sun shone.

Ernie and his loved ones then travelled along Ernie Moss Way to Chesterfield Crematorium for his funeral service.

Countless tributes have been pouring in for Ernie.

Speaking before Ernie’s funeral, Martin Thacker, vice-chairman of Chesterfield FC as well as a director of the National Football League and chairman of North East Derbyshire District Council, told the Derbyshire Times: “The minute’s round of applause at three friendly matches to mark the passing of Ernie was emotional.

“The images of Ernie displayed on the large screen, coupled with supporters chanting his name, evoked memories of his successes as a player at Chesterfield FC.

“To witness away fans join with us in the applause at recent games underlined how respect for Ernie transcends our borough’s boundaries.

“Statisticians will be able to tell you about Ernie the player and how many appearances he made for Chesterfield and goals he scored.

“For many Chesterfield fans, it is about Ernie the person too.

“Those who were at Saltergate will describe a favourite Ernie Moss moment of magic, just as those who were at the Walsall game will recall his fantastic hat trick.

“All that Ernie achieved as a player has earned him a place among the pantheon of Spireites’ legends.

“In addition, I respected Ernie the family man and Cesterfeldian.

“He lived around the corner from me and I would often have dealings with him at his ‘Moss and Miller’ shop.

“His disarming smile and gentle manner were part of his charm.

“Ernie made time for people and went that ‘extra mile.’

“In my eyes, Ernie wasn’t just a Spireites’ legend, he was a hero in every sense of the word.

“My thoughts are with his family at this time.

“Ernie will always be in their hearts.

“They can take comfort in knowing he is in ours also.”

Photographer Bernard Jones worked for the Derbyshire Times for 48 years before retiring in 2012.

He took pictures of Ernie countless times over the years.

“Few people are worthy of the title ‘legend’ – but as far as Chesterfield FC is concerned, Ernie was just that,” said Bernard.

“My first memories of him were as an 18-year-old taking his first steps as a professional footballer.

“Best known for his heading ability, he had his best time playing alongside Kevin Randall in the side that won the old Fourth Division title in 1969-1970.

“The Archer, Randall, Moss corner kick routine became synonymous with Chesterfield’s promotion campaign.

“When he retired from playing I remember him as manager of Matlock Town and running a sports shop with Derbyshire and England cricketer Geoff Miller.

“Always a thoroughly genuine person, it was a pleasure to have known Ernie Moss.”

Bob Newton fondly recalled playing alongside Ernie.

"He was a fantastic man and a fantastic footballer – I’ll always remember him,” he said.

“We’ve lost a true great.”

Chesterfield MP Toby Perkins added: “Through his remarkable footballing career which inspired and delighted fans at Chesterfield and elsewhere, and the legacy he left off the field too, Ernie will always be loved and missed.”

Hundreds of tributes have also been paid to Ernie on social media.

Dave Martin commented: “RIP Ernie. You will always be the king of Chesterfield FC.”

Others described him as ‘the best Spireite’, a ‘gentleman’ and ‘Mr Chesterfield’.

‘Ernie will never be forgotten’

In a career spanning 20 years, Ernie also played for Lincoln, Doncaster, Scarborough and Mansfield.

He was sadly diagnosed with Pick’s Disease, a form of dementia, in 2014.

Ernie’s family believe his dementia was caused by him repeatedly heading a football during his career.

They have long campaigned for more research to be done into the links of heading a football and dementia.

A statement from Chesterfield FC said: “Ernie was a hugely popular figure who enjoyed watching matches at the Technique Stadium with his family until ill health prevented him from attending.

“Ernie leaves behind wife Jenny and daughters Nikki and Sarah, together with son-in-law Stu and grandchildren Henry, Georgia, Erin, Finn and Callie.

“Our thoughts are with Ernie’s family and friends at this difficult time.”

A fundraiser set up to pay for a permanent memorial to honour Ernie at the Spireites’ home has now brought in more than £2,500.

The campaign aims to raise a total of £71,000 to pay for an extension of the Chesterfield FC Memorial Garden at the Technique Stadium and commission an appropriate permanent memorial to the adored goalscorer.

To donate, visit justgiving.com/campaign/ernie or text ERNIE to 70191 to give £10.

Ernie will never be forgotten – and what a spectacular legacy and wonderful memories he leaves behind.

Our thoughts and condolences are with Ernie’s family, friends and supporters.

We love you, Ernie, we do.

We always will.

MORE: 21 photos of Ernie Moss

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