One year has passed since Joey Jones died, but his influence on Wrexham AFC remains as strong as ever. In his honour, we are looking back on a man whose name remains inseparable from the club he served across generations.
The anniversary offers another chance to reflect on why Jones became known as Mr Wrexham. He was valued for far more than his appearances and honours. He was respected for the values he stood for and the time he gave to everyone around the club.
That connection has remained just as strong over the past year. The Welcome to Wrexham tribute introduced his story to a wider audience while preserving the themes of friendship, loyalty and community that defined his life.
Mickey Thomas perhaps summed up that bond best. Speaking during the programme, he said: “I’ve lost Joey, but I’ve lost more than a friend. This is someone different.”
“He’s my heartbeat, isn’t he? He has been my heartbeat for all my life.”
Those words explain why the loss was felt so deeply across Wrexham. Jones belonged to a generation that understood representing the club also meant representing the town.
Joey Jones gave Wrexham far more than 479 appearances
Jones made 479 competitive appearances and scored 22 goals across three spells with Wrexham. He also earned 72 caps for Wales before going on to win the European Cup with Liverpool.
His contribution to Wrexham did not end when his playing days were over. Jones coached the club’s youth and reserve teams, served as caretaker manager in 2001 and later became one of the club’s most recognisable ambassadors.
That lifelong commitment is why supporters continue to hold him in such high regard. He remained a constant presence throughout promotions, relegations and difficult periods, while also witnessing the club’s remarkable return to the Championship from the sidelines.
Jones naturally belongs among the figures who shaped Wrexham across generations. He connected the club’s proud history with the values supporters still expect today.
Announcing his passing in July 2025, Wrexham described him as “a true Club legend, on and off the pitch, with time for everybody he met”. Those words capture why Joey Jones’ legacy can never be measured by appearances, goals or medals alone.
His influence stretched far beyond football. He became a mentor, coach, ambassador and familiar face around the Racecourse Ground, helping each new generation understand what it means to represent Wrexham AFC. His story is also reflected in the meaning of Yma o Hyd, a phrase that perfectly captures his lifelong bond with the club.
The club has also announced plans to honour Jones with a statue outside the redeveloped Kop Stand, ensuring one of the greatest servants in the club’s history will have a permanent place at the Racecourse Ground.
One year after his passing, Joey Jones remains part of the stories supporters share and the standards associated with the famous red shirt.
Wrexham continues to move forward, but Mr Wrexham will always remain an integral part of the club’s identity.
About The Author
