Multi-millionaire computer scientist found dead in waters off Bermuda

[GemMan 96]

Multi-millionaire computer scientist found dead in waters off Bermuda A multi-millionaire computer scientist who became the largest single donor in the 900-year history of Oxford University has been found dead in the water off his home on a private island.

Dr James Martin became the largest single donor in the 900-year history of Oxford University  Photo: Rex Features

 

 

 

The body of Dr James Martin – who gave $150 million to Oxford more than a decade ago – was found by a kayaker floating in the water near his home on Agar’s Island close to Two Rock Passage in Hamilton Harbour.

Bermuda Police said an investigation into Dr Martin's death was ongoing.

But a spokesman added: "There does not appear to be any suspicious circumstances."

British-born Dr Martin, who was 80, became the author of more than 100 books and a globally-renowned speaker on the computer revolution after starting his career with computer giants IBM in the 1950s.

He made his million-dollar fortune through a business that taught other businesses how to benefit from computers.

 

One of his books – 1978’s The Wired Society which predicted the internet revolution – was nominated for a Pulitzer Prize.

He was also ranked fourth of the 25 most influential people in computer science by Computerworld.

Dr Martin, who had lived in Bermuda for many years, bought Agar’s Island in 1997 with US-born third wife Lillian and turned it into his private sanctuary.

The island home features a 300-year-old temple.