Brian Hodgson, 56, was found in a trailer park at Broke, west of Newcastle, on Friday.
He was reported missing on Christmas Eve.
Yolanda Hodgson's partner, South Sydney Rabbitohs player Luke Burgess, took to social media to alert the public to Mr Hodgson's death.
"On behalf of Yolanda and the Hodgson family I would like to thank you for your help and support over the last week," the Daily Telegraph reported on Friday.
"The police have found Brian in the early hours of Friday evening. He has passed away. We ask for some privacy at this time."
Police media say Mr Hodgson is yet to be formally identified, and his death does not appear to be suspicious.
A report is being prepared for the Coroner.
