Charlton vice‑captain Lloyd Jones pays heartfelt tribute following loss of beloved aunt
The Valley, 4 July 2026 – Charlton Athletic vice‑captain and defensive lynchpin Lloyd Jones has announced the sad passing today of his beloved aunt, the woman who guided and supported him throughout his childhood and early years in football.
In an emotional statement shared with supporters, Jones spoke of her constant presence from his very first training sessions to his rise through the youth ranks. “She was the one who drove me across the country in all weathers, who told me to keep believing even when things were hard, and who never stopped cheering me on,” he said. “She helped shape who I am as a person and as a player, and her encouragement has been with me in every match I’ve played.”
Since joining Charlton in 2023, Jones has established himself as the cornerstone of the club’s defence. He has been voted Player of the Year and Players’ Player of the Year in back‑to‑back seasons, and was a pivotal figure in the side that set a new club record for clean sheets during their memorable promotion campaign. As vice‑captain, he leads by example on and off the pitch – qualities he says his aunt instilled in him from a young age.
The entire Charlton family has rallied around him. A club spokesperson said: “Lloyd is such an important part of our fabric, and our thoughts and deepest condolences are with him and his family at this incredibly difficult time. We will support him in every way he needs.” Teammates, coaching staff and supporters have flooded social media with messages of love and solidarity, many sharing memories of seeing her proudly in the stands at The Valley.
Jones will take time away from pre‑season preparations to be with his family. “I will carry her memory with me every time I walk out here,” he added. “Everything I do for this club, I do in her honour.”
Leave a Reply