Dragons’ Den Star Hilary Devey Dies at 65 After Long Illness

Hilary Devey died on Saturday from a long illness, in Morocco, where she owned a property, her press officer Benjamin Webb told the PA news agency. Tributes are pouring in after the announcement of her death. "We are saddened to learn that Hilary Devey has died after a long illness, writes Juliet Bouverie, CEO of the Stroke Association. After suffering a stroke herself, she has been a long-time ambassador for the Stroke Association and we are very grateful for all the support she has given us over the years."

"Hilary was passionate about ensuring that all stroke survivors receive the help and support they need to rebuild their lives. We send our deepest condolences to her family and friends," she added. "Sad to hear that @HilaryDevey has passed away. So young. Too young. Rest in peace Hilary," tweeted Dragons’Den star Duncan Bannatyne, who participated in the series for a decade alongside Devey. "So sad to hear of the passing of the lovely Hilary Devey. She left us with wonderful memories, may she rest in peace. My thoughts are with her family," tweeted businessman Theo Paphitis, who also appeared on Dragons’Den.

Hilary Devey was born in Bolton. At the age of 7, she began working in pubs and the local store run by her parents. At 16, she dropped out of school and moved to London, where she worked in logistics for companies like TNT. Devey came to public attention when she replaced James Caan on Dragon’s Den. She founded the multi-million pound freight distribution company Pall-Ex in the 1990s, after selling her house and car. In 2013, the late was named CBE, honored for her business career and charitable work.