Tributes paid to Cheltenham linesman who collapsed at match as family watched
A LIFELONG football fan died while helping to referee at a match his grandson was playing in.
Arthur Stiley, 68, from Prestbury, was taken to Cheltenham General Hospital when he collapsed, but later died.
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Arthur Stiley
He had been assisting as a linesman at his grandson Jack's Southside under-11s team.
Mr Stiley's son-in-law Carl Williams, said: "He just couldn't get enough of sport. It didn't matter which one, although football was his biggest passion.
"He supported Cheltenham Town all his life, but when his mum died he visited his aunt from Wolverhampton a lot and he took on Wolverhampton Wanderers too." Mr Stiley, of New Barn Lane, had been Cheltenham Association Football League referee's secretary for the past 15 years.
He also played for the town's cricket and football teams before hanging up his boots at the age of 45.
He then took up bowls and became secretary of Cheltenham Spa Bowling Club.
He was a founding member of the Falcons Football Club.
Mr Williams said: "Arthur was a true gentleman.
"In the 20 years I'd known him I'd never seen him get cross.
"He was always helpful, laid-back and easy going.
"He enjoyed life and was very proud of his two grandsons Jack and Sam and was enthusiastic about helping out when he could." Mr Stiley began his career as a printing apprentice at Martin Cadbury's in Cheltenham before moving to another printing firm in Banbury.
He spent several years there, but ended his career as a meter reader with Npower.
Mr Williams added: "He was very much loved and will be hugely missed by everyone.
"Arthur was a kind and popular man and we've already been inundated with messages of condolence."
Mr Stiley, who died on February 28, leaves behind wife, Pat, daughter, Sarah, and his two grandsons.
Mr Stiley's funeral will take place on Monday at Bethesda Church, Cheltenham, at noon.
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by Adie, Lydney
Monday, March 15 2010, 7:58PM
“It was a great pleasure to have known such a gentleman.
On behalf of the Forest of Dean RA we would like to contribute and send our condolences.”
by derek, cheltenham
Friday, March 12 2010, 2:41PM
“Sad day when I read of Arthurs death. We played football against each other many times, we refereed in the same era. In our twilight years we passed the time of day on the High street talking of the good bad old days. A true sport a true gentleman a lovely man. A great pleasure to have known him.”
by Derek, Tewkesbury
Friday, March 12 2010, 2:21PM
“Arthur is the one who got me into Refereeing by calling me the night after I passed the exam and asked if I want to Referee Bredon v Prestbury as my first match the following day!! I remember that as if it was yesterday. For sure, there are not many around like Arthur, a good honourable man who would help anyone and the football community will miss him immensely. My condolences go to his family at this sad time. God Bless you Arthur and thanks for everything, you will be sadly missed.”
by Medwyn, Cheltenham
Wednesday, March 10 2010, 7:30PM
“Arthur will be greatly missed by all who knew him. A great friend and collegue who gave his time and advice without prejudice. He is probably organising a StPeter XI aleady.
Rest in peace Arthur.”
by Dean, Cheltenham
Wednesday, March 10 2010, 5:07PM
“There would always be a time mid-week where I'd be speaking to Arthur, and answering phone calls on behalf of my old man from him, and although he probably had no idea who I was, he never failed to be polite and take a keen interest in his 'Football Family's' well-being. A sad day experienced on that Sunday afternoon, and Arthur will be sadly missed.
Lots of Love x”
by jim harding, Cheltenham
Wednesday, March 10 2010, 11:33AM
“Agree with everything said so far and more so! As a local Referee and Chairman of the Cheltenham Referees' Association, I had the pleasure to work with Arthur for many years in local football and could not have met a more efficient and helpful colleague. Well respected by everyone. My heart goes out to Pat, Sarah, Carl, Jack and Sam. It was a pleasure to have known you Arthur. R.I.P You deserve it.”
by David, Longlevens
Wednesday, March 10 2010, 11:06AM
“I remember Arthur. Have a feeling he was involved with the Boys' Brigade in Cheltenham. Used to see him when he used to read the electric meter at Cobalt HQ at Linton House. He was always early. Always chatted and always left with a smile. I am saddened to learn of his passing but clearly he had the gift of affecting the lives of so many.”
by Martin Kimber, cheltenham
Wednesday, March 10 2010, 10:48AM
“Having been a Cheltenham League referee for over 30 years, I know well the huge contribution Arthur has made to making it such an enjoyable league to referee in. Organising people to cover so many fixtures week in and week out can't be easy, especially with a shortage of refs and all those last minute drop outs and cancellations; yet Arthur never got flustered and his kindness and care helped so many younger referees develop their interest. He will be greatly missed.”
by stephen pearce, rowanfield
Wednesday, March 10 2010, 10:31AM
“arthur always had a kind word to say about every one he met and he will be sadly missed by all the people that new him . my condolences go out to his family at this sad time r.i.p. arthur”
by Aubrey, Tewkesbury
Wednesday, March 10 2010, 9:49AM
“It was a complete & utter pleasure to have known Arthur.When i finished my playing days & took up refereeing,he was the man that guided me. A true gent in every sense of the word.He will be sadly missed by all that knew him.My condolences to his family at this time. R.I.P Arthur.”