Francis Packer, 64, Found Deceased in Sydney Home
Francis Packer, 64, was found deceased at his Sydney home on Sunday. His body was located in a Cammeray apartment owned by his mother, Angela Raymond.
NSW Police confirmed on Wednesday that his death was from a suspected medical episode. His mother, Angela Raymond, stated he died from a heart attack and requested family privacy.
Family Background and Personal Life
Packer was the only child of Clyde Packer and the eldest of Sir Frank Packer's three grandchildren. He referred to himself as the "black sheep" of the Packer family.
His life was marked by periods of depression and addiction, and he was ostracized by his father, Clyde Packer, due to his sexuality.
He resided in America for 35 years before returning to Sydney in 2014, following the death of his partner in the 2001 World Trade Centre attacks. Back in Australia, he found solace, was closer to his mother, and reconnected with childhood friends, pursuing a life as an artist. He divided his time between Thirroul on the South Coast and his Sydney apartment. Packer had previously stated he enjoyed a lower profile compared to his cousins.
Heir Apparent and Family Dynamics
Packer was once considered the heir apparent to the family fortune. However, his potential succession was thwarted in 1972 when his father, Clyde, departed the family media business after a disagreement with Sir Frank Packer. This event led to Kerry Packer, and subsequently James Packer, assuming leadership roles within the family's business.
Childhood friend Tim Olsen described Packer as a gentle and kind individual who faced struggles but was highly intelligent and scholarly.
In recent years, Packer reconnected with his cousin Gretel, though he was not close with James Packer.
In 2023, he discussed a project to write a book about his family, acknowledging potential disapproval from his cousins James and Gretel, and his aunt Ros Packer.