Sir Bob Murray has reflected on George Forster’s lifelong devotion to Sunderland after his sad passing this week
Former Sunderland chairman Sir Bob Murray has paid tribute to George Forster following the sad news of his passing, speaking to The Echo about a man he described as one of the most devoted supporters the club has ever known.
George, who died on February 3 at the age of 99, was a lifelong Sunderland fan and a towering figure within the club’s supporter community, having run the Sunderland AFC Supporters’ Association for 55 years. A regular at matches since 1934, he was among the last supporters alive to witness Sunderland’s league title triumph at Roker Park in 1936.
George remained a familiar face at games well into his centenary year, including the 2-1 win over Crystal Palace in January 2025 and the play-off final victory over Sheffield United at Wembley that sealed the club’s return to the Premier League.
“It is with great sadness that I learned of the passing of George Forster, a true gentleman and one of the most devoted supporters Sunderland AFC has ever known,” Sir Bob told The Echo. “I had the privilege of knowing George from my earliest days as chairman, and he quickly became one of those people you never forget - someone whose presence stayed with you.
“In many ways, it was people like George who drew me into the club in those early years - supporters whose quiet commitment, belief and love for Sunderland helped you understand why the club is so special and what it truly means. His warmth, his humour and his unwavering devotion to Sunderland AFC shone through every conversation. He represented the very best of our club - loyalty, humility and heart.
“George’s dedication across so many decades was remarkable to witness. He didn’t just support Sunderland - he lived and breathed it. Through good times and difficult ones, he was always there, always encouraging and always keeping the faith. He understood that a football club is not only about what happens on the pitch, but about community, belonging and shared pride. George embodied all of that. What always struck me most was his kindness. He had time for everyone - fellow supporters, club staff and players alike - and he carried the history of the club with him in a way that made you feel connected to something bigger.
“I remember finding an old, rolled-up painting in the cellars of Roker Park and challenging the Supporters’ Association to raise the funds to restore and frame it. It was no small task. I spoke to George about it at the time, and he was absolutely convinced that supporters - people like him - would make it happen. He was right. Today, that historic Hemy painting stands proudly in the stadium’s main reception, a symbol of the club’s heritage and the supporters who cherish it. In many ways, it stands as George did - with quiet pride, dignity and enduring love.
“The club has lost a treasured friend and someone I greatly respected and was very fond of. George’s legacy will live on in the spirit of our supporters and in the soul of Sunderland AFC. My thoughts and deepest condolences are with his family and friends at this very sad time.”
Continue Reading