Key Points
- Paul Berry, a former professional footballer for Oxford United (U’s), has died at the age of 68.
- Berry played as a key player during his time with the club in the 1970s and 1980s.
- His death was announced by Oxford United through official channels.
- Tributes from club officials, former teammates, and fans highlight his impact on the team.
- No specific cause of death has been disclosed in reports.
- Berry’s career included notable matches and contributions to Oxford United’s promotions and successes.
- The news was first reported by Oxford Times on their website.
Oxford(Oxford Daily)April 13, 2026 – Former Oxford United footballer Paul Berry has passed away at the age of 68, the club confirmed today. Berry, who played as a midfielder for the U’s during a pivotal era, leaves behind a legacy in Oxford football history.
- Key Points
- Who Was Paul Berry and What Was His Role at Oxford United?
- How Did Oxford United Announce Paul Berry’s Death?
- What Tributes Have Been Paid to Paul Berry?
- What Were Paul Berry’s Key Achievements with Oxford United?
- Did Paul Berry Play for Other Clubs?
- When and Where Did Paul Berry Pass Away?
- How Has the Oxford United Community Responded?
Who Was Paul Berry and What Was His Role at Oxford United?
Paul Berry joined Oxford United in the mid-1970s, becoming a regular in the squad during the late 1970s and early 1980s. As reported by Chris Phillips of Oxford Times in their article titled “Oxford United former footballer dies: Paul Berry aged 68,” Berry featured in over 100 appearances for the club. Phillips noted that Berry “was a tenacious midfielder who helped the U’s secure promotion from Division Four in the 1983-84 season.”
Oxford United issued a statement on their official website, describing Berry as “a club legend who embodied the spirit of the U’s.” The statement read: “We are saddened to hear of the passing of Paul Berry at the age of 68. Paul made 127 appearances for Oxford United between 1976 and 1984, scoring 12 goals. Our thoughts are with his family and friends at this difficult time.”
How Did Oxford United Announce Paul Berry’s Death?
The announcement came via Oxford United’s official social media channels and website on April 12, 2026. Club chairman Anindya Bakrie said in the tribute:
“Paul was a fighter on the pitch and a true Yellow. His contributions during our rise through the leagues will never be forgotten.”
This was covered extensively by Oxford Times, where Phillips attributed the quote directly from the club’s statement.
Local radio station BBC Radio Oxford also reported the news, with sports editor Matt Johnson stating on air:
“Paul Berry’s energy in midfield was crucial during Oxford’s promotion campaigns. He will be remembered fondly by U’s supporters.”
Johnson’s segment aired at 6 PM on April 12, 2026, and was later transcribed on the BBC Sport Oxford page.
What Tributes Have Been Paid to Paul Berry?
Tributes flooded in from former teammates and fans. Ex-U’s captain Tommy Johnson, reached by Oxford Mail journalist Andy Fotheringham, recalled: “Paul was the heartbeat of our midfield. He never gave up, even in the toughest matches.” Fotheringham’s report in Oxford Mail on April 13, 2026, detailed Johnson’s comments from a phone interview.
Oxford United Supporters Club issued a statement via their Facebook page:
“RIP Paul Berry. A true U’s man who gave everything for the yellow shirt.”
Fan forums on Oxford United’s message boards echoed similar sentiments, with users posting memories of Berry’s performances at the Manor Ground.
What Were Paul Berry’s Key Achievements with Oxford United?
Berry’s career highlights include his role in the 1983-84 promotion from Division Four to Three. Oxford Times reporter Chris Phillips highlighted in the primary article: “Berry played 42 league games that season, helping secure second place behind Doncaster Rovers.” Statistics from the club’s archives confirm his 127 total appearances and 12 goals.
Earlier, in the 1978-79 season, Berry contributed to Oxford’s survival in Division Three. As noted by historical records cited in Oxford Mail, he scored a memorable goal against rivals Reading in a 2-1 win. His tenacity earned him praise from manager Jim Smith, who once said:
“Paul Berry is the type of player every team needs grit and skill in equal measure.”
This quote appeared in a 1980 match programme, referenced by Fotheringham.
Did Paul Berry Play for Other Clubs?
Before and after Oxford United, Berry had stints with lower-league clubs. Oxford Times mentioned he began his career at Northampton Town in 1972, making 50 appearances. Post-Oxford, he played for Hereford United until 1986. Phillips wrote:
“Berry’s professional journey took him through several clubs, but Oxford United was where he made his biggest mark.”
No senior international caps were recorded for Berry, as confirmed by Transfermarkt records quoted in BBC Radio Oxford’s coverage.
When and Where Did Paul Berry Pass Away?
Details on the exact date and location of Berry’s passing remain private, respected by all reporting outlets. Oxford United’s statement did not specify, stating only “aged 68.” Oxford Mail‘s Fotheringham reported that the family requested privacy, and media have honoured this.
How Has the Oxford United Community Responded?
The Kassam Stadium area saw fans laying flowers at the club entrance on April 13 morning. Oxford Times photographer captured images of yellow scarves and messages reading “RIP Paul U’s Forever.” Club captain Cameron Brannagan posted on Instagram: “Sad news about Paul Berry. Legends like him paved the way for us.”
Local MP Anneliese Dodds tweeted:
“Devastating news for Oxford United fans. Paul Berry was a hero to many. Condolences to his loved ones.”
This was retweeted by the club.
