Former longtime 702 ABC Sydney radio announcer James Valentine has died. Valentine retired from the station in February this year following cancer treatment, after attempting to return to the airwaves last year. (Source abc.net.au)

The presenter and professional saxophone player is being remembered for his ability to explore the humour and oddities of daily life on the airwaves.

The broadcaster hosted radio and television shows across the ABC for 30 years, most notably presenting the Afternoons radio show for more than 20 years.

Valentine retired from 702 ABC Sydney in February after 25 years with the station, citing the need to focus on his cancer treatment.

“James passed peacefully at home surrounded by his family, who adored him,” Valentine’s family said in a statement.

“Throughout his illness, James did it his way, which lasted all the way until the end when he made the choice to do Voluntary Assisted Dying.”

“Both he and his family are grateful he was given the option to go out on his own terms. He was calm, dignified as always and somehow still making us laugh.”

Valentine is survived by his wife Joanne and his children Ruby and Roy. 

Story and photo courtesy of ABC.