It is with deep sadness that we share the news of the passing of Chris Stevenson, a cherished member of the Richmond Rugby family, who passed away at the age of 84 on 9th February 2025.

Chris's connection with Richmond began in February 1990 when he and his son, Nick, attended a cup game against Bath. Falling in love with the community spirit, they officially became members in September 1991, marking the start of a lifelong commitment to Richmond Rugby.

A devoted supporter, Chris was a familiar face at the Athletic Ground, rarely missing a home game and always enjoying the club’s renowned hospitality. His presence was not only defined by his unwavering passion for Richmond but also by the friendships he formed over the years.

Richmond became a true family affair for the Stevensons. His son, Hugo, played for the Saxons, Vikings, and Heavies before taking on a coaching role with the Under-12 boys’ team, where his wife, Rachel, serves as the age group’s manager. Their son, Henry, has followed in the family tradition, proudly serving as a ballboy on matchdays.

Chris’s dedication to the club remained steadfast even as his health declined, with one of his last visits being for the home fixture against Esher—a match that, fittingly, saw Richmond produce a thrilling display with four-plus tries in front of a warm and welcoming crowd. Enjoying rugby to the end, he watched highlights of England’s Six Nations win over France with Nick on the Saturday night and knew that Richmond had beaten Dings Crusaders at the R.A.G. on the same day.

Rugby was not his greatest sporting skill with his best being Millfield 2nd XV as a wing forward though he had success at tennis playing doubles alongside Mike Sangster (semi-finalist of the 1963 French Open, 1961 Wimbledon and the 1961 US Open). His cricketing highlight was taking five Surrey wickets at the Oval for London New Zealand including that of Ken Barrington. He finally retired from playing cricket in October 2005, having hit consecutive half centuries on West Indies tour for Lashings Over 50s against Barbados and then Jamaica. His other sporting prowess was downhill skiing for England and competing, as an amateur, against seasoned professionals. His claim to fame was once falling in a race on home snow at St Moritz 1,000 feet in height not distance!

Chris Stevenson will be deeply missed by all at Richmond Rugby. We extend our heartfelt condolences to Nick, Hugo, Rachel, Henry, and the entire Stevenson family during this difficult time.