Jersey philanthropist Sir David Kirch passes away aged 89

Jersey-based philanthropist Sir David Kirch has died at the age of 89.

The British businessman and noted art collector passed away on Saturday morning at Jersey General Hospital.

Born and raised in London, Sir David relocated to Jersey in 1973 following a highly successful career in the property sector. He later became widely recognised across the island for his extraordinary generosity, particularly towards older residents, distributing hundreds of pounds to help pensioners with food and everyday essentials.

Paying tribute, Deputy Sam Mézec said Sir David was “held in deep affection by so many islanders, especially pensioners,” praising the lasting impact of his kindness.

He added that many elderly residents took pride in collecting the vouchers Sir David provided, noting the dignity and appreciation he showed to recipients. Mézec urged the community to honour his memory by continuing to defend the rights and respect of Jersey’s senior citizens.

Deputy Lyndon Farnham described Sir David as “a truly remarkable man” who used his wealth to improve the lives of others, particularly the elderly. He said Sir David cherished island life and regarded it as a privilege, which inspired his commitment to giving back.

“There are few who have done as much for Jersey’s older generation,” Farnham said, adding that while the island had lost one of its most generous figures, his charitable legacy would endure through his trust’s ongoing work.

Sir David began his well-known voucher scheme when he himself turned 70, offering islanders of the same age a £100 voucher to spend at Co-op stores. Speaking in 2010, five years after launching the initiative, he said he intended to continue the programme for the rest of his life if he was able.

In recognition of his services to senior citizens in Jersey, Sir David was knighted in the 2013 Queen’s Birthday Honours.

His death marks the end of an era for many islanders who benefited from his quiet but transformative generosity.