David J.C. Austin, Renowned Rose Grower and Chairman, Dies Aged 67

David J.C. Austin’s Leadership at the Albrighton-Based David Austin Roses

A Legacy of Roses and Collaboration

The horticulture world is mourning the loss of David J.C. Austin, whose leadership at the Albrighton-based David Austin Roses firm spanned three decades. Born in 1958, Austin took up the mantle of the family business in 1990, continuing the work established by his father, David C.H. Austin. His influence extended well beyond the nursery, as his roses became a staple feature at the Chelsea Flower Show and a recurring presence on the BBC series Gardeners’ World.

The collaboration between the nursery and the television program was long-standing, with experts from the Shropshire-based team frequently appearing in the magazine and at BBC Gardeners’ World Live events. This professional partnership fostered a deep respect within the industry, evident in the immediate and emotional response from the show’s lead presenter, Monty Don, who presents the show alongside Adam Frost and Frances Tophill.

I am so sorry to hear this. My regards and condolences to all his family, the 71-year-old presenter wrote on Instagram. But what legacy he leaves – millions of exquisite roses that will live on for so many, enriching all our lives.

Monty Don’s Public Tribute to the Late Rose Grower

Family Tributes and the Reality of CJD

In a moving statement, Austin’s children—Richard, James, and Olivia—offered a glimpse into the life of the man behind the nursery, describing him as a gardener first and foremost. They highlighted his humility and commitment to the family business, noting that he carried their grandfather’s vision with an unwavering sense of responsibility, always putting the roses, the family business, and its people before himself. His children remembered him as a person who was “kind” and “modest” with a playful spirit.

The NHS Classification of Creutzfeldt-Jakob Disease Symptoms

Austin’s death followed a diagnosis of Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease, a rare and fatal condition that usually leads to the death of the sufferer within one year. According to the NHS, symptoms of CJD include loss of intellect and memory, changes in personality, loss of balance and coordination, slurred speech, vision problems, and abnormal jerking movements. The NHS notes that there is currently no cure for CJD, so treatment aims to relieve symptoms and make the affected person feel as comfortable as possible, including the use of medicine such as painkillers or antidepressants to help with anxiety and depression. There are only a handful of deaths in the UK every year from the variants of CJD.

Reflections from the Gardening Community

The loss has been felt widely across horticultural organizations. The Royal Horticultural Society’s social media page stated: We're deeply saddened by this news. Sending love and condolences to the Austin family. The Gardeners’ World magazine’s official Instagram account posted: We’re so very sorry to hear this. Sending our love to you all. Zoe Ball, a gardening enthusiast who has appeared on the BBC’s coverage of The RHS Chelsea Flower Show in the past, added: Sending love and condolences to the Austin family. Heartbreaking news.

The public outpouring of grief has highlighted the intersection of personal loss and professional respect. In their statement, his children noted that he faced his illness with the same courage and dignity that he brought to life. Above all, he was our dad, and words cannot express how much we will miss him. We couldn't be more proud of him,” they added.

As the industry continues to honor his contributions, the focus remains on the enduring impact of his life’s work. The millions of exquisite roses he cultivated will live on, serving as a lasting testament to the gardener who chaired the company for 30 years.

Sources: lbc.co.uk, express.co.uk.