It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Ian Lancaster Fleming, who died August 12, 1964, at the age of 55. A British author, Ian was best known for authoring the James Bond series of spy novels, which spawned a hugely successful film franchise. Ian's first James Bond novel, Casino Royale, was published in 1953 and was followed by 14 other books. Ian was born on May 28, 1908, in London to Valentine Fleming and Evelyn St. Croix Rose. He was educated at Eton College and Sandhurst before spending time traveling, including visiting Helsinki, Berlin and South Africa. Ian worked at the Foreign Office during World War II and was appointed Commander of the Order of the British Empire in 1952. Aside from his work with James Bond, Ian was also involved in media, as assistant to the Director of Naval Intelligence. He wrote a number of scripts for film adaptations of different stories. Ian was predeceased by his father in 1917 and his mother in 1948. He is survived by his former wife, Anne, and their two sons, Caspar and Lucan. He is also survived by his second wife, Lady Anne Charlesworth. Ian will be remembered for his works of fiction and his profound impact on popular culture. May he rest in peace.