The Jersey Overseas Aid Commission has announced the death of its Executive Director Simon Boas from cancer at the age of 47.

Mr Boas' passing comes just days after the 46 year old aid worker received a personal letter from the King, commending his approach to his terminal cancer diagnosis.

The King wrote about how moved he was by the courageous approach Simon has taken to his illness and how he admires his outlook on life and death.

His Majesty also acknowledged Simon's extensive work with charities both in Jersey and overseas.

Mr Boas' inspirational writing about confronting death has reached a international audience of millions when his articles were published in the Jersey Evening Post and reproduced in national newspapers including The Telegraph, read on BBC Radio 4.  His book, a Beginner's Guide to Dying, will be published posthumously later this year, with the proceeds going to palliative care charities.

"Life is inordinately precious, unlikely and beautiful. You are exquisite. When you say – as you do, 20 times a day – “I’m fine”, realise that you don’t just mean “I’m adequate”. You are FINE. Refined. Unique. Finely crafted; fine dining; fine china! You really are fine in that sense too. We say it all the time, but unknowingly we speak the truth.

We should be dazzled by our good fortune – dancing on the tables every day. And I mean to keep dancing in whatever time I have left here, and (who knows?) perhaps afterwards too." - an extract from Simon Boas' articles.

In May, he was presented with the Bailiff's Silver Seal for his aid and voluntary work, which included serving as an honorary police officer in Trinity and being a Samaritan.

The Citation for the award read:

'The Bailiff’s Silver Seal is awarded to Simon Boas for his contribution to the island through service to the community and to the betterment of humanity through both his work in Jersey Overseas Aid and by his writings.

'In particular, during a time of great personal challenge he has continued to offer support and comfort to those in need, both through his internationally recognised work and that of the voluntary positions that he holds.

'Furthermore, the words he has shared with us all, reflecting on the beauty and wonder of life, have inspired hundreds of thousands of people around the world.'

 Simon Boas on a visit to Za atari Refugee Camp, Jordan with JOA

Paying tribute, International Development Minister Deputy Carolyn Labey says his legacy will live on in the countless lives he touched with his kindness, compassion, sense of humour and love of life.

"Simon was an inspiration and larger-than-life character who impacted thousands of lives here in Jersey as well as millions around the world.

"Simon brought his expertise and experience to JOA following a distinguished career in international development spanning many years, with a focus on the Middle East. In his 8 years as JOA’s Director, Simon delivered on a vision which transformed JOA into the agile and respected international aid agency it is today, giving tangible impact, reflecting the generosity of Jersey and its residents. Beyond this, Simon extended his boundless energy and voluntary spirit to Chairing Jersey Heritage Trust, serving in the Trinity Honorary Police and offering his time to the Samaritans.

"More recently Simon was able to use his warmth, intellect, writing prowess - and his own tragic circumstances - to offer comfort to so many, endearing him to all who were lucky enough to have known him and beyond.

"Our hearts go out to Simon’s wife Aurelie, his parents Tony and Sarah, and his sister Julia during this time of profound loss.

"Rest in peace dear friend. You will be so very deeply missed and will remain forever in our hearts."