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The Director of Jersey Overseas Aid – whose courageous battle against cancer and humorous writing on the topic inspired hundreds of thousands of people around the world – has sadly passed away.
Simon Boas died today, surrounded by his family.
Mr Boas, who also chaired Jersey Heritage and served in the island’s Honorary Police force for the Trinity parish, was diagnosed with throat cancer last year and wrote candidly and humorously about his prognosis and the many reasons not to feel gloomy about it.
Those reflections, which were read and shared by hundreds of thousands of people around the world, as well as featuring on national radio and in national newspapers, have now been woven into a book offering a unique perspective on life and death which is due to be published this autumn.
Money generated through book sales will be given to palliative-care charities, particularly those focusing on children and developing countries.
Before his death, Mr Boas was honoured with the Jersey Bailiff’s Silver Seal for his contribution to the community and his ability to “offer support and comfort to those in need”.
Last week, he also received a letter from King Charles III, commending him on his bravery.
News of his sad passing was announced by International Development Minister and JOA Chair Deputy Carolyn Labey this morning. She issued the statement below:
Pictured: Simon Boas received the rare award from the Bailiff in May at a small private event in his garden.
“Simon passed away peacefully in Jersey today, surrounded by his family. Our hearts go out to Simon’s wife Aurelie, his parents Tony and Sarah, and his sister Julia during this time of profound loss.
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 eight 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. He intimately shared his cancer diagnosis, inspiring millions around the world with his positive approach and outlook on both life and death. His words went viral, were published in national newspapers and his uplifting messages were discussed in pubs, read out in common rooms and shared around kitchen tables all over the world. People wrote to him from every continent, thanking him for being so honest, for engaging in the challenging conversation around cancer and death and providing comfort to both those experiencing the illness and those caring or concerned for a loved one.
In his final weeks he continued to attend Board meetings, continued to serve in the Honorary Police, wrote a poem and even found it within himself to write a book, ‘A Beginners Guide to Dying’, which will be published later this year and where the proceeds will be donated to Palliative Care charities. He received the Bailiff’s Silver Medal for ‘his inspirational contribution to the Island’ and was honoured by the World Jersey Cattle Bureau in recognition for the promotion of the Jersey Breed in Central and East Africa.
Shortly before his death Simon received a personal letter from King Charles III who praised Simon’s exceptional charitable service and conveyed his admiration for his courageous approach to his illness.
While we all mourn Simon’s passing, both Commissioners and the dedicated staff at JOA, find solace in the privilege of having worked alongside him and the honour of sharing some of his journey with him. His legacy will live on in the countless lives he touched with his kindness, compassion, sense of humour and love of life.
Rest in peace dear friend. You will be so very deeply missed and will remain forever in our hearts.”
