Delia Smith's husband Michael Wynn Jones dies aged 85 as Norwich pay tribute

Norwich City have announced the death of their former majority shareholder, Michael Wynn Jones, at the age of 85.

Jones is the husband of celebrity TV chef and cookery writer Delia Smith, 85, and was often seen alongside her at Norwich matches. The couple, who lived near Stowmarket in Suffolk, have been married since 1971.

They were the majority shareholders of the Canaries from 1997 to October 2024. After selling their stakes, they became honoury life presidents of the Championship side.

Norwich said in a statement: "Everyone at Norwich City is deeply saddened by the passing of our honorary life president, Michael Wynn Jones. Michael died peacefully at home on Monday morning, aged 85.

"He will be greatly missed. His family are grateful for the wonderful care provided by the community nursing team at St Elizabeth Hospice.

"Our deepest condolences are with Delia and Tom, and with all of Michael’s family, friends and loved ones. At the family’s request, we ask that their privacy be respected at this difficult time."

Norwich's rivals, Ipswich Town, added: "We send our condolences to Delia and Tom, all of Michael’s family and friends, and everyone at Norwich City at this time. Rest in peace, Michael."

Former Norwich winger Darren Huckerby said: "Such sad news, he stayed out of the limelight but all at [the club] owe him so much." Fellow ex-player Darren Eadie described Wynn Jones as "a kind and caring gentleman".

Wynn Jones and Smith were majority shareholders of Norwich for 28 years, investing millions of pounds in the club. They reduced their stakes in the club to 10 per cent in 2025, selling the rest to FB Norfolk Holdings Group, the company of American millionaire Mark Attanasio, who now holds 85 per cent.

"The club’s existing board would like to place on record its sincere thanks and gratitude to Delia and Michael for their contributions to the club during their time as directors," the club said at the time.

“Delia and Michael have always been clear that they would act in the best interests of the club when passing on stewardship of it. By structuring the agreement in this way the parties have secured the long-term financial security of the club.”