ITV news star Gary Burgess said: “I’ve had the best life… I’ve had the luckiest life,” in a final message released after his death aged 46.
The popular presenter, who had shared his brave battle with cancer online, also paid tribute to his
husband Alan and friends.
Gary, who died on New Year’s Day, wrote: “I met my soul mate and the love of my life who went on to become my husband. I got to work with some of the most amazing people in newsrooms and studios doing the job I absolutely adore.
“And I’ve been able to share my own relatively short time on this planet surrounded by friends and loved ones who have enriched my life in ways they may never truly understand.
“My greatest sadness is the prospect of leaving all of that and all of them behind.
“The thought of doing that to Alan is unfathomable to process, but I also know the very people who’ve shown me love and support will now wrap up those feelings around him in the coming days.
“Let my final words simply be ‘thank you’. Every person in my life has, in their own way, helped me live my best life. That’ll do.”
(Image: Instagram)
Manchester-born Gary began his career in Blackpool before moving to Guernsey and then to Jersey in 2012.
He was diagnosed with testicular cancer in 1999 and treated again in 2015 and 2016. He told fans he had six to 12 months left to live in November 2020.
He passed away in his sleep at a hospice in Jersey.
On January 2, ITV Channel News announced the death of broadcaster Gary after he passed away “peacefully”.
(Image: Instagram)
A statement issued read: “ITV journalist Gary Burgess died peacefully at Jersey Hospice yesterday afternoon (1 January) after a long-documented journey with cancer.”
Former Editor-In-Chief of ITV, John Hardie tweeted:: “@GaryBurgessCI has been a genuine inspiration to people across the Channel Islands. He faced his hardship with beautiful grace and continued to serve the community he loved with excellent journalism from the ultimate front line. RIP, Gary.”
Former Programme Editor at ITN and ITV News, Richard Frediani said: “Gary Burgess would always leave you with a smile. He loved life. He loved his job. He loved Alan. And in return we all loved Gary.”
For more of the latest from Daily Star, make sure you sign up to one of our newsletters here.
Source: Celebrities - dailystar.co.uk
