Norman Colin Dexter, born on September 29, 1930, in Stamford, Lincolnshire, was an unparalleled figure in the world of English crime writing, best known for his creation of the iconic Inspector Morse series. Dexter's transition from a classical studies teacher to a bestselling author was spurred by his forced retirement due to deafness. This led to a second career that immortalized his name in literary and television history. His Inspector Morse novels, penned between 1975 and 1999, captivated readers with their intricate plots and the intellectual depth of their protagonist. They also enjoyed immense success on television, with the series running from 1987 to 2000. Dexter's legacy lives on through the sequel series "Lewis" and the prequel "Endeavour," underscoring his enduring impact on British crime fiction.

Beyond his fictional creations, Dexter's life was marked by significant achievements and recognitions. He received numerous awards from the Crime Writers' Association, including two Gold Daggers and a Cartier Diamond Dagger for lifetime achievement. His literary contributions were further recognized with an Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) in 2000 and the Freedom of the City of Oxford in 2001. Dexter's personal life, enriched by his marriage to Dorothy Cooper in 1956 and their two children, mirrored the richness and fulfillment of his professional career. Colin Dexter's passing on March 21, 2017, left a legacy that endures, continuing to influence and entertain with the timeless appeal of Inspector Morse and his Oxford world.

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