Ex-footballer Stan Collymore announces death of mum who was 'genuinely wonderful person'

Mr Collymore, from Cannock, made a heart breaking tribute to his mum, Doreen, upon confirming the news on Sunday (January 5).

Writing to X, formerly Twitter, the ex-Aston Villa and Liverpool striker, who played for Walsall and Wolves during his youth career, described his gratitude at having "such a genuinely wonderful person" as his mum.

The 53-year-old wrote: "It's with the most profound sadness and deepest sorrow to announce the passing of my beautiful Mom, Doreen Collymore today, aged 94. 

"Many people in Cannock, at Villa and clubs I played for knew her and always asked how she was which she loved and appreciated, so passing on the news is for those who may have met her, however briefly, to pay their respects. 

"I held her hand and stroked her head as she passed on and although grief is very fresh, as a son my gratitude for being lucky enough to have such a genuinely wonderful person as my mom is my overriding emotion today and always will be. 

"I'll post funeral arrangements for those who knew her and who can join us to celebrate her life in due course.

"...Margaret Doreen Collymore August 5th 1930 - January 5, 2025."

Mr Collymore was on Wolverhampton Wanderers books as a youth and played for teams including Aston Villa, Nottingham Forest, Liverpool as well as Walsall and Stafford Rangers throughout his footballing career before retiring from the sport at age 30.