Delia Smith’s husband Michael Wynn Jones has died aged 85, with the Norwich City figure passing away peacefully at home surrounded by his family
Celebrity chef Delia Smith is mourning the loss of her husband, Michael Wynn Jones, who has died aged 85. The former Norwich City majority shareholder passed away peacefully at home on Monday morning, surrounded by his family.
Michael and Delia became one of the most recognisable couples in English football after taking charge of Norwich City together in the late 1990s – but their relationship stretched far beyond the boardroom.
The club confirmed his death in a statement, saying: “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.”
Michael and Delia first became involved with Norwich in 1996 after being invited by former majority shareholder Geoffrey Watling to help the club during a period of financial uncertainty.
Two years later, the couple became majority shareholders, beginning an association which would last almost 30 years.
While Delia was often the more familiar face to the public, Michael was a hugely influential figure behind the scenes.
Together they oversaw five promotions to the Premier League, battled financial difficulties and invested millions of pounds into the club.
They eventually stepped away from majority ownership in 2024 when control passed to Mark Attanasio’s Norfolk FB Holdings group.
The couple were then made honorary life presidents in recognition of their years of service.
But Michael’s career was not defined solely by football.
A lifelong Norwich supporter, he had a distinguished career in journalism and publishing, working for titles including the Daily Mirror and The Spectator before founding New Crane Publishing.
He and Delia remained closely connected to Norwich even after stepping away from the running of the club.
Michael’s death marks the end of a partnership which became a major part of Norwich’s modern history, with the pair spending decades working side by side both professionally and personally.
The couple’s commitment to the club was often framed around protecting its long-term future, rather than simply chasing success.
And while Delia was regularly the one in the spotlight, Michael was a constant presence alongside her.
His family have asked for privacy at this difficult time, while tributes are expected to be paid to the much-loved figure in the days ahead.
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