West Ham hosted Liverpool in a league game that kicked-off at 14:05 GMT on Sunday and the players wore black armbands for the match.
There was a period of applause at the stadium before current Hammers captain Jarrod Bowen laid a shirt – with Bonds’ name and the number four on it – in front of the stand named after the club’s distinguished player.
Fans also applauded in the fourth minute of the match in tribute to Bonds, while West Ham said a full tribute will take place at the club’s next home game against Aston Villa.
“It’s a sad day for everyone,” said forward Bowen before the game. “Our condolences all go to his family.
“He’s probably going to go down as West Ham’s biggest legend – the best captain that the club have had.
“He achieved so much and I’ll never emulate that success, but to put on the captain’s armband like he did, for me, is a big thing.”
West Ham manager Nuno Espirito Santo, who was appointed in September following the departure of Graham Potter, said hearing the news of Bonds’ death was a “sad moment for all of us at the club”.
“Billy Bonds represented what West Ham is all about,” he said.
“I did not have the chance to meet him, but I know that our fans are feeling sad. Let’s support the family and give a good day in memory of Billy Bonds.”
Former West Ham attacking midfielder Joe Cole came through the ranks at the club also paid tribute to Bonds.
“Billy Bonds was manager when I signed as a kid and he was really kind to me and my family,” said Cole.
“Growing up at West Ham, his name’s synonymous with the club. Everything that’s good about West Ham, Billy Bonds, that was him. It’s really sad news and thoughts and prayers are with his family.”
