The founder of a children’s hospice has died.

Tributes have been paid to Derek Phillips who set up the Demelza charity with his wife in 1994.

The couple established the not-for-profit in honour of their daughter, Demelza, who died of a brain tumour at the age of 24.

She had worked at Acorns Children’s Hospice in Birmingham and her parents visited the site after her funeral. Its work and impact inspired them.

Sean Reynolds, chairman of trustees, said: “Derek and Jennifer saw that it was not a place of sadness and regret; instead, it radiated cheerfulness.

“They had a vision to create something just as special in the south east of England in her memory and had the courage and energy to bring that to reality.”

Before his death, Derek had said: “Now, when I look back over the pattern of my life, I can see it has all had a purpose and I understand how my experiences were preparing me for my role in the children’s hospice movement.”

In 1994, along with a small group of backers, the couple established the charity which has now attracted thousands of supporters.

Four years later, Demelza’s patron the Countess of Burma, opened the hospice in Bobbing, Sittingbourne. Derek who was an architect had designed the building himself.

Over the years, the charity merged with two others, resulting in hospices being opened in Eltham, South East London and a community hospice at home service in East Sussex.

Demelza helps over 2,500 children and families a year through palliative, respite, end-of-life and bereavement care, as well as other forms of support and therapies.

CEO of the charity, Lavinia Jarrett said: “We owe a great deal to the insight, dedication and fortitude of Derek Phillips.

“He had great vision and belief that the people of the south east would support the needs of a hospice for the children in our area.

“Our supporters have never disappointed and have never failed to ensure Derek’s visions live on, providing specialist care and support to children and their families.”

In 2001, Jennifer unexpectedly died. She is remembered in the Kent hospice’s Garden of Tranquillity with other children who were cared for by Demelza.

That same year, Derek stepped down as chairman of the board of trustees and took on the role of Demelza’s founder president.

In May 2022, he received the Prime Minister’s daily Points of Light award which recognises outstanding individuals who are making a change in their community and inspiring others.

A tribute page has been set up in memory of Derek. If you would like to donate or leave a message click here.

Sean said: “The board of trustees owe a debt of gratitude for Derek’s long years of service as founder president and support for the children’s hospice movement – our sincere condolences go to Derek’s family.”

Richard Oldfield, President, added: "We are all so sad to hear the news of Derek’s death – he was the force of nature that made Demelza possible.

“It was his dynamism, optimism, and determination that created the house in Bobbing, as founder of the organisation which has helped so many children and their families. We will miss him greatly."