Dear Member,
It is with the greatest sadness that I must inform you of the passing of Mark Whitlock, a lifelong supporter and player, in his younger days, of Brighton Football Club
I first met Mark when, as an aspiring 19-year-old, I joined Brighton FC in 1974. With Graham Nicholas as 1st XV captain, he persuaded Mark to accept the 2nd XV job, and as such, he was the first captain I played under. It was an inspired appointment as Mark was a friend to all, a great organiser, and a talented centre who drove the team’s potential to achieve their best rugby.
Mark attended every home game at Waterhall again last year, and he was always an absolute delight to share a beer and laugh with whilst chatting about rugby. He will be greatly missed by his friends at Brighton.
Mark had been bravely battling cancer for some time and passed away on Wednesday, 18th June 2025, at home with his family, Debbie and Kris. Mark, when he knew the end was near, wrote this note to be shared with his friends.

[b]"Dear All,
When you read this, I will have ‘popped my clogs’.
I just want to say that I am grateful for so many fun-filled and happy memories of all my friends and family over the years.
I do not wish to have a formal funeral, and neither do Debbie or Kris. I will be having a direct cremation, and my ashes will be buried in our family plot at Clayton Natural Burial Ground, attended by my immediate close family.
Best wishes to you all.
Mark’’
[/b]

A minute’s silence will be held at the 1st XV’s first home fixture on September 6th in memory of Mark's life as a member of Brighton FC.
Best regards
Dick
President BFC (RFU)