Nelson DeMille, the acclaimed author of suspense and action-adventure novels, has passed away at the age of 81. His family confirmed his death on Tuesday evening.
Nelson bravely fought a nine-month battle with esophageal cancer, which he faced “with courage, grace, and good humor,” according to his family.
DeMille was best known for his bestselling novels such as Plum Island, The Charm School, and The General’s Daughter. The latter was adapted into a film starring John Travolta. Reflecting on the movie, DeMille told January Magazine, “It wasn’t a bad movie. Travolta did a good job. I liked most of it. They overdeveloped some stuff and forgot other stuff and put things in that weren’t in the book that didn’t need to be put in… But I mean, as a whole, the movie was powerful. It got terrible reviews from the critics, though.”
Over his prolific career, DeMille authored 23 novels, 17 of which made bestseller lists. His debut novel, By the Rivers of Babylon, was published in 1978 and marked the beginning of his successful writing journey.
Born in New York City, DeMille grew up on Long Island and attended Hofstra University. He joined the U.S. Army and served in Vietnam as an infantry platoon leader, earning the Air Medal, Bronze Star, Vietnamese Cross of Gallantry, and the Combat Infantryman Badge. After his military service, he returned to Hofstra to complete his degree in political science and history.
DeMille received numerous accolades throughout his career, including being named ThrillerMaster of the Year by the International Thriller Writers in 2015. He was also a member of the Authors Guild, American Mensa, and served as president of the Mystery Writers of America.
Nelson DeMille is survived by his three children, Lauren, Alexander, and James. He was predeceased by his wife, Sandra. He spent most of his life on Long Island, New York, where he drew inspiration for many of his novels.
For more information on Nelson DeMille, please visit nelsondemille.net, or read his obituary on Legacy.com.