A Bill Shankly signing in 1962 who went on to make 241 appearances for Liverpool over the next five years, the Scot has died at the age of 85.
Stevenson was a shining light in the first Reds team to lift the FA Cup. He netted a crucial penalty in the semi-final win over Chelsea and then played his part in the 2-1 victory against Leeds United at Wembley.
A popular figure, Stevenson used to meet up with fellow ex-Reds star Fairclough and others as part of Forever Reds, the club’s official former players association.
“It’s very sad news, Fairclough told Liverpoolfc.com. “Sadly, there’s not many of the 1965 boys left now.
“I saw Willie a few weeks ago and even though he has been struggling through ill health, he was a little bit better than he was for the past couple of years, so this has come out of the blue and I was very sad to hear this.
“Willie was a very nice man. He was quietly spoken, much like the way he played football with a bit of style and just went about his business.
“He had a little charm and was always one of the boys, and he was very much part of our former players association.
“Willie came to all of the events with his wife and loved to be involved with the lads. He was a lovely guy who will be well remembered.
“Anybody who remembers him playing during the 1960s for Liverpool would recall his quiet stylish play he had, he could beat players and always deliver a great pass for the likes of Roger Hunt and Ian St John.”
