Iconic Premier League referee who died aged 65 leaves huge fortune to family | Football | Sport

Uriah Rennie left a huge fortune for his children when he died at 65 last year. The former Premier League official left no will, and as a result, his wealth was automatically passed to his partner and two children. The division’s first-ever black official, Rennie, sadly passed away in a hospital in Sheffield in June after “privately battling” cancer.

He joined the list of match officials in 1994 before becoming the first black referee to oversee a game at the level during Derby’s 1997 clash with Wimbledon. Throughout his career, Rennie oversaw more than 300 matches, including 175 in the English top flight. Now, 10 months after his passing, documents have revealed the staggering sum of £1.28m he left to his family.

His partner Jayne and his two children will receive the money. In a statement following his death, Jayne and Rennie’s older brother Glenroy said: “Our family have appreciated all the support from the nursing teams from Northern General and Weston Park Hospitals, plus close family and friends during the past few weeks at such a difficult time. Uri will be so very sadly missed.”

Rennie hung up his whistle in 2005 and championed a number of worthy causes, among them equality and inclusion in sport and mental health awareness. He subsequently took on the role of Chancellor of Sheffield Hallam University just four months before his passing.

A figure who touched so many lives, numerous organisations have paid their respects to Rennie following his death. A statement from the FA read: “The FA Refereeing Department is saddened to hear of the passing of former FIFA and Premier League referee, Uriah Rennie.

“Uriah will forever be remembered as a true trailblazer of the game. Our thoughts are with Uriah’s family and friends at this time.”

Sheffield United wrote: “Sheffield United are saddened to learn of the passing of popular and trailblazing referee Uriah Rennie. Our thoughts are with his friends and family at this time.”

The Sheffield FA also said: “We are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of our former Chair and trailblazing referee, Uriah Rennie. Uriah made history as the Premier League’s first Black referee, officiating over 300 top-flight matches between 1997 and 2008.

“He broke down barriers, shaped our football community and inspired generations to come. Our thoughts are with Uriah’s family and friends at this difficult time.”

Former Liverpool and Aston Villa striker, Stan Collymore, added: “Incredibly sad to hear of the passing of referee Uriah Rennie.

“A pioneer, trailblazer and a bloody good ref. Rest in peace, Ref.”