11th Earl of Sandwich: John Montagu left huge seven-figure sum to family and charities after death, aged 81

The 11th Earl of Sandwich left behind an enormous seven‑figure fortune when he died last year aged 81.

John Montagu passed away on February 1, with the bulk of his estate going to his wife, Susan Caroline Montagu, the Countess of Sandwich. Probate documents show the hereditary peer’s fortune was valued at more than £2.1 million ($4 million) after deductions.

The aristocrat was a direct descendant of the fourth Earl of Sandwich, who is famously credited with inventing the iconic meal by placing meat between two slices of bread so he could continue playing cards without stopping to eat. It is said the idea was inspired by pitta bread enjoyed as part of a selection of small dishes during his travels.

Honouring the family legacy, John Montagu launched a sandwich business in 2004 alongside his son Orlando. The pair opened a shop named ‘The Earl of Sandwich’ on Ludgate Hill in London.

While most of his fortune was left to his wife, the former charity worker also made a series of smaller bequests to causes close to his heart. His will allocated £750 to Christian Aid, where he once served as a director, as well as £500 to Save the Children, £300 to Care International UK and £200 to Anti‑Slavery International.

Two churches also benefited, with £1,000 each left to All Saints Church in Mapperton, Dorset, and St Mary Magdalene in Brampton, Cambridgeshire.

Family members were also remembered. His brother, George Montagu, received £5,000, while £1,000 was gifted to each of his grandchildren.

The will detailed the charitable donations and family gifts before stipulating that the remainder of the estate should pass to his wife, Countess of Sandwich, Susan Caroline Hayman.

The 83-year-old married John in 1968 after the pair met at Cambridge University. The couple had three children and went on to welcome ten grandchildren.

Lord Sandwich joined the House of Lords in 1995 and became an elected hereditary peer in 1999, where he was known for speaking out on poverty, refugees and humanitarian issues.

It said Lord Sandwich, who was born in 1943, had a career in overseas aid, human rights and development, but was also “devoted” to Mapperton Estate, near Beaminster in Dorset.

His son, Luke Montagu, became the 12th Earl of Sandwich upon his death.