It is with great sadness that Stenhousemuir Football Club learned of the passing of our former manager, Jimmy Bone, who died on 1st September at the age of 75.
Jimmy took charge of the Warriors in October 2001 following the resignation of Brian Fairlie and remained at Ochilview until April 2002. While his tenure was a challenging one, his wider career in football was long, distinguished, and full of remarkable achievements.
Born in Fallin, Jimmy began his working life in the local Polmaise pit as an electrician before his footballing ability offered him a way into the professional game. Signing with Partick Thistle from Airth Castle Rovers, he made his mark in the 1971 League Cup Final, scoring in Thistle’s famous 4–1 victory over Celtic.
A move to Norwich City followed, where Jimmy played a key role in promotion to the First Division and made history by scoring the club’s first-ever top-flight goal. His playing career went on to include spells at Sheffield United, Celtic, Arbroath, St Mirren, Hearts, and ventures abroad with Toronto Blizzard and Hong Kong Rangers.
After retiring as a player, Jimmy moved into coaching, serving with distinction at a number of clubs. He was assistant to Alex Smith during St Mirren’s 1987 Scottish Cup triumph, worked at Airdrie, East Fife, Dundee, Ross County, Partick Thistle and Chester City, and coached overseas in both Zambia and South Africa. With Power Dynamos, he achieved continental success, winning the African Cup Winners’ Cup.
Even in later years, Jimmy’s passion for football remained undimmed, and he continued to support the game through scouting and analysis roles.
Everyone at Stenhousemuir FC extends our deepest sympathies to Jimmy’s family and friends at this time. His contribution to football, both at home and abroad, leaves a lasting legacy.
