A tribute to David Moar MBE, founder and president of Big C
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of David Moar MBE, beloved founder and president of Big C Cancer Charity who died on Saturday 24 May 2025, at the Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital.
Since co-founding Big C in 1980, David dedicated his life to improving the lives of those affected by cancer across Norfolk and beyond. His tireless commitment, compassion and unwavering belief in the power of community have left a lasting legacy that continues to shape the charity’s work today.
Today, Big C is one of East Anglia’s largest cancer charities, having raised £45 million since it was founded 45 years ago. With centres across the region providing free support services including counselling, complementary treatments and bereavement care, while also funding world-class cancer research right here at the Norwich Research Park.
David was a visionary, a leader and a deeply compassionate gentleman whose legacy will continue to touch lives for generations to come.
Reflecting on his journey, David once said:
“I wouldn’t really believe it was possible, but it has, and is, changing lives. Sometimes I think we all have a purpose in this world, and I wonder whether I was ill to actually create Big C as it is today.” David Moar MBE, Big C Co-Founder
Karen Vincent, Chief Executive of Big C
“David was more than the founder of Big C – he was its heart. To many of us, he was a friend, a mentor and an inspiration. As we come to terms with this huge loss and mourn his passing, let us remember that David’s legacy lives on in every life touched by Big C and in every act of kindness inspired by his example. Our thoughts and heartfelt condolences are with David’s wife, Carolyn, and their family at this very sad time.”
Karen reflects..
“David had a determination, a generous spirit and a remarkable ability to make people feel seen and valued. His legacy is not only in the buildings that bear Big C’s name, but in the comfort, courage, and care so many have received because of his vision.”
David’s family shared:
“David was a devoted husband and father. His passion for helping others and his belief in the importance of local support for those facing cancer were at the heart of everything he did. We are incredibly proud of all he achieved and deeply touched by the many tributes we have received.”
Professor Dylan Edwards, Chair of the Board of Trustees of Big C
“David was a larger-than-life character in so many ways. A big, gentle man with a great farmer’s handshake, whose cheerfulness and optimism were infectious. He could talk to anyone and get them to talk to him, from a shy child to the King himself. He relished life and lived it to the fullest, and helping people was one of his greatest pleasures. David will be forever missed by those who knew and loved him, but his legacy will go on for years to come through the work of Big C, the charity that he created to help anyone affected by cancer.”
Plans to honour and celebrate David’s life and extraordinary contributions will be shared in the coming weeks. In the meantime, anyone in need of support is encouraged to contact Big C’s support line on 0800 092 7640, email the team: support@big-c.co.uk, or visit one of our Cancer Support Centres.
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