Gateshead Council leaders have paid tribute to former chief executive Roger Kelly OBE who put the borough on the "international stage".
Born in County Durham in October 1953, he dedicated most of his working life to local government.
Having studied law at the University of Liverpool, Mr Kelly worked as a solicitor with Durham County Council for nine years before working for a mineral and development company for two years.
In 1987 he joined Gateshead Council as deputy director of legal services and was promoted to director in 1990.
Mr Kelly was appointed chief executive in 2004, following the retirement of Sir Les Elton.
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In 2012 he stepped down as chief executive and a year later received an OBE in the 2013 New Year's Honours list for services to local government and the community in Gateshead and the North East.
Gateshead Council leader, Martin Gannon, said: "It's with great sadness that we heard of Roger's death.
"Those who worked with him always had great admiration for his dedication and his commitment to excellent services for the people of Gateshead.
"During his time at Gateshead Roger helped to influence all our major regeneration work including the National Garden Festival and later the redevelopment of Gateshead Quays, which now boasts Gateshead Millennium Bridge, BALTIC Centre for Contemporary Art and Sage Gateshead.
"There is no doubt that these developments have put Gateshead on the international stage and his legacy is a lasting one.
"We extend our deepest sympathies to his wife Janette and their three daughters."
Opposition leader, Jonathan Wallace, added: "Roger was a true gentleman who treated all councillors with the utmost respect and I always appreciated his support.
"He showed great dedication to Gateshead and its residents for 25 years. I would like to pass on my condolences to his family."
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