We have lost a much-loved friend and colleague: Piers Cross died on March 29, 2017. Throughout a long career in the water, sanitation and hygiene sector, Piers advised governments, supported civil society networks, was instrumental in the creation of the AfricaSan regional process, worked for leading sector organizations, including the World Bank, and explored opportunities to strengthen ties with the private sector. He embodied the spirit of Sanitation and Water for All, and worked with a small group of like-minded colleagues from across the sector to establish the SWA global partnership, guide it through its difficult early years, and help set the vision for its continued growth. His career was full of highlights and achievements, and memorable not just for what he did, but how he did it. He mentored younger colleagues, challenged his peers, and managed to inject a sense of fun and adventure into discussions that nonetheless tackled serious issues.
Those who had the privilege to work with Piers also recall his love for his family: his wife, Lynda, his four children, his grandchildren, and a seemingly overflowing house full of extended family and friends. We join them all in our grief that Piers is no longer by our side, but a desire to celebrate and remember his remarkable life.