Darlaston Town have announced the heartbreaking news of the death of their player, Leon Taylor, at the age of 36.
Taylor was taken ill on Wednesday and the club learned of his passing later that night before releasing a statement on their website on Thursday.
"Darlaston last night were totally devastated to learn of the passing of our beautiful and great friend, and player Leon Taylor," reads the statement.
"Our thoughts and prayers are with Leon’s family and friends at this most difficult of times."
Dean Gill, who managed Taylor at Darlaston, said on behalf of the club: "Our love and support are with Leon’s family, friends, and team-mates.
"In due course, as a club, we will pay our respects to Leon in the way he deserves.
"Leon had a partner and two beautiful children, and they are understandably our number one concern at this time.
"As a club we are united in our love for Leon and devastation at his passing. “We ask that everyone is given time to deal with this accordingly."
Darlaston teammate Ash Evans added: "RIP Leon Taylor will remember the best times with darlo achieving promotion together, rest easy my brother sleep tight."
Taylor counted a number of West Midlands clubs among his former sides, including Sporting Khalsa, AFC Wulfrunians, Brocton, Wednesfield, Bloxwich United, Tividale and Walsall Wood.
Current Walsall Wood manager Harry Harris, who played with Taylor for four years, said: "I spoke to him every day – he was one of my best mates.
"He was just a great lad – I had so many good times with him. No-one ever had anything bad to say about him and he wouldn’t ever say anything bad about anyone else.
"From the first time I joined Walsall Wood I knew we were going to be good mates forever."
Darlaston’s match with Shawbury United on Saturday has been postponed.
Dudley Town paid tribute to Taylor, declaring: "The club are hugely saddened to hear the news of the passing of Darlaston Town player Leon Taylor, a fantastic character, player and man.
"We would like to pass on our deepest condolences to Leon’s friends and family, along with everyone at Darlaston Town."
Sporting Khalsa added: "We are devastated to hear the news that former Khalsa player Leon Taylor has passed away.
"A truly great footballer and an absolute gentleman. Our thoughts are with his family & friends at this sad time. RIP Leon."