Dr Robert Twycross

29.01.41 - 20.10.24

We are sad to learn that Dr Robert Twycross, a pioneering figure in hospice and palliative care, has died. He died at home, peacefully and surrounded by love.

He leaves behind a profound legacy that reshaped the way end-of-life care is provided worldwide. As one of the early leaders in this field, Robert’s work helped transform the care of patients with terminal illnesses, with a particular focus on pain and symptom management and the compassionate alleviation of suffering.

Above all, however, Robert was a much-loved husband to Deirdre; Dad to Alison, Judith, Fiona, John and David; and Grandad Robert to Isabella, Joe, Dexter, Io, Lula, Dora, Winston, Zinnia and Elodie. He was also close to his extended family. 

Robert was a passionate supporter of Oxford United, a keen gardener, walker, ornithologist and was completing the Guardian crossword until three days before his death. Earlier this year he and Deirdre celebrated their sixtieth wedding anniversary.

Robert was a man of faith, and his Christian belief was based on compassion. His faith informed his work and approach to his life. Robert was known for his hospitality and for opening his home to family, friends and colleagues, regularly welcoming people from around the world.

A graduate of Oxford University and Fellow of St Peter’s College, Robert’s career in palliative care began in the 1970s at St Christopher’s Hospice in London working closely with Dame Cicely Saunders, the founder of the modern hospice movement. He served for 25 years at Sir Michael Sobell House in Oxford, from 1976 to 2001, first as the Medical Director and later as Clinical Reader in Palliative Medicine. Robert was Director of the World Health Organisation’s Collaborative Centre for Palliative Care from 1988 to 2005. He wrote and taught extensively, and his work took him around the world. 

Although Robert formally retired in 2001, he never quite gave up working, most recently contributing to the ongoing debate on Assisted Dying in the UK.