George Baldock, who tragically drowned in the swimming pool of his Athens home at the age of 31, has left his £4million fortune to his infant son. The ex-Premier League defender, who previously represented Sheffield United in the English top flight, was playing for Panathinaikos when he was found dead last October.
His partner raised the alarm after she couldn’t reach him for several hours. The coroner ruled it an accidental death with no alcohol or drugs found in his system.
Baldock was due to fly back to England the day after his tragic accident to celebrate his son Brody’s first birthday, a hearing revealed. Probate documents have now shown that the former Sheffield United star left a substantial fortune of £5,781,399.
After settling his debts, the net value of his estate was reduced to £4,091,003. Baldock died without making a will, and the money will automatically go to his next of kin.
According to The Sun, court papers say that his fortune will be managed by his fiancee Annabel Dignam ‘for the use and benefit of minor Brody Baldock’ until he turns 18.
Born in Buckinghamshire, Baldock ended up representing Greece 12 times in football, qualifying through his grandmother. He also moved to the country to play his club football there.
Annabel shared a heartbreaking tribute to her beloved partner after his tragic death. She penned: “George, the love of my life, my soulmate. The perfect Dad to our beautiful boy. You completed me. You were my world and I know we were yours.
“You are here with me in Brody’s smile, giggle and infectious personality. My world will never be the same but I will find a way for Brody. I promise. I love you forever and always G. Your Neen. X.”
Baldock’s devastated family also issued a poignant statement which said: “George, you were the most special father, fiance, son, brother, uncle, friend, team-mate and person. Your enthusiasm and infectious personality brought so much love to those that were fortunate enough to know you and those that adored you from the stands.
“We will forever cherish the special memories we have of you and you will continue to live on in your beautiful son. You were due to fly home today for us to celebrate his first birthday together, but instead we mourn your loss.
“As a family it has been incredibly touching, but equally so very difficult to read the huge number of tributes written by those that knew George and from those whose life he touched.”