Footy star dies in his sleep aged just 53 after battling personal issues that left him homeless – as his brother posts a heartbreaking message: ‘Now the pain has stopped’
- Kyle White has passed away in his sleep at the age of 53
- Played for Bulldogs, Magpies and Steelers
- Fight against personal problems and homelessness
- Lifeline: 131 114 or Beyond Blue: 1300 224 636
Former Bulldogs, Wests Magpies and Illawarra Steelers cult hero Kyle White has tragically passed away in his sleep, aged just 53.
The 89-game prop, who also had successful stints in the UK with Workington Town and Widnes, was hugely popular with fans for his cracking hits in defense and playing well above his 177cm, 94kg weight in a brutal era .
But unfortunately, the beloved attacker battled personal issues as he retired, eventually leaving him homeless and his brother, Josh, fearing for his sibling’s life.
Josh, who also starred in the NRL and the UK, issued a public cry for information about his brother in 2019 before he was eventually found by the side of the road in north Queensland and driven to hospital.
The heartbroken brother expressed his grief over White’s tragic death, saying he hopes he “finds peace now.”
Footy star Kyle White has tragically passed away in his sleep, aged just 53. The cult hero played in the NRL for the Bulldogs, Magpies (pictured) and Steelers before spending a successful spell in the UK.
White’s brother Josh posted this photo of Kyle in 2019 after he was found following a public plea for information. The footy star was left homeless after struggling with personal issues
“It is with a heavy heart that I inform everyone that my brother Kyle passed away this morning,” he wrote on Facebook.
“As most people know, he’s been dealing with some issues lately, but that doesn’t make it any easier.
“He was my idol growing up and we played in the same NRL clubs and were inseparable during our younger years. Hopefully he is now at peace and the pain has stopped.
“He was a tough player on the field and knew how to have a good time off it. We have had many ups and downs over the years, but he is my brother and (I) will always love him.”
His former clubs and many bereaved fans took to social media to express their grief at his untimely death.
Widnes said he was an immensely popular figure at the club.
“He (White) will be remembered as a mobile attacker who hit hard in defense and who was a popular figure in Widnes both on and off the pitch, having spent a period as licensee of Kelly’s pub in the town,” said the club. in a statement.
The club extends its condolences to his brother Josh – the former London Broncos and Salford halfback – and to all of Kyle’s family and friends.
Josh said White was making positive changes in his life before his untimely death.
“He had his demons, but he got over it,” he said Wide world of sports about his brother.
“He was a very brave and tough player in a difficult era and he never backed down.
“His teammates loved him because they knew they could always count on him to give their all.”
For confidential support in Australia, please contact Lifeline: 13 11 14, Beyond Blue: 1300 22 4636, or Suicide Call Back Service: 1300 659 467.