A sad day for NZ literature

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:  Monday 1 July 2013

A sad day for NZ literature

The New Zealand Society of Authors (PEN NZ Inc.) mourns the loss of iconic literary figure and agent Ray Richards who passed away quietly at 2am this morning. 

‘Ray’s contributions to New Zealand publishing are unprecedented’ commented Maggie Tarver, CEO of The New Zealand Society of Authors (PEN NZ Inc.).  ‘I had known Ray for many years before coming to the Society and have always felt honoured that he gave so much of his time and advice to me.  His passion for New Zealand literature was evident throughout his life.  We all owe him a great deal.  He will be sadly missed.’

Ray started his career with AH Reed in 1946 after serving as a pilot in the Fleet Air Arm in the Second World War.  After thirty years of service, he started Richards Literary Agency in 1976 which remains his legacy to the literary community. 

In recent years Ray had begun writing his memoirs.  His wonderfully full and accomplished life is well worth recording or posterity and we sincerely hope that this is brought to fruition.

We offer our deepest condolences to his wife Barbara and their daughters, friends and family.

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