Doug Ellis dead: Former Aston Villa owner dies, aged 94

Ellis chaired Aston Villa twice for a combined 31 years before selling the club to Randy Lerner in 2006

(Getty )

Doug Ellis, the former owner of Aston Villa, has died after passing away overnight, aged 94.

Ellis was chairman of the club from 1968 to 75, and then again from 1982 to 2006, and during his time in charge they secured two League Cups and twice finished runner-up in the top flight.

Aston Villa released a statement on Wednesday morning to confirm the news. The club said: “Our president emeritus passed away this morning.

“There’s no question that Sir Doug dedicated his life to Aston Villa.”

The club also said that a minute’s silence will be held in his honour ahead of next Saturday’s Championship match against Swansea City in order for fans at Villa park to pay tribute to the long-time club owner, while players will also wear black armbands.

“Our condolences go out to family and friends at this very sad time,” the statement added.

The Hooton-born entrepreneur attempted a football career of his own with Tranmere Rovers, where he spent two years as a schoolboy, before moving into business and eventually taking majority control of Villa in 1968.

Ellis chaired Aston Villa from 1968 to 1975 and from 1982 to 2006 (Getty ) (Getty)

Ellis oversaw 15 different managerial reigns, stretching from Tommy Cummings when he first took control to Martin O’Neill’s reign, which continued beyond his sale of the club to American businessman Randy Lerner in 2006.

He also held positions on the boards of Birmingham City, Derby County and Wolverhampton Wanderers during his lifetime.

Ellis was diagnosed with prostate cancer in 2004 and also underwent a heart bypass the following year, but returned to full health and continued his role with Villa three months later, until he sold the club to Lerner in a deal worth £63m. In recognition of his commitment to the club, he was made life president upon stepping down.

Ellis was knighted in recognition of his charity work in March 2012, having donated £400,000 towards the Doug Ellis Learning Hub at the University of Birmingham Medical School earlier that year, and also donated £10,000 to build a new school gym at Sutton Coldfield Grammar School for Girls.

He is survived by second wife Heidi and his three sons.