anyone'' was how relatives yesterday described Broadway producer and stepfather of actor Michael Douglas, Mr. William Darrid who passed away last weekend at the age of 69.

Mr. Darrid, who died after a respiratory illness in California on Saturday, was married to Bermudian actress Ms Diana Dill, the former wife of actor Kirk Douglas.

The couple, who married in 1956, last visited Bermuda about a month ago.

And although Mr. Darrid was experiencing health problems then, his brother-in-law Sir Bayard Dill recalled "he was always pleasant, even when he was hurting''.

"I had the greatest respect for his ability to make people happy even when he was not,'' Sir Bayard said. "His death was a very great shock.'' Sir Bayard recalled how the couple, who were no strangers to staff at Ariel Sands, contributed to the building of a cottage at the South Shore, Devonshire guest property about four years ago.

He said they were so "well liked there'' that their contribution was allowed under the condition that they could occupy the cottage for a month to six weeks annually without paying rent.

"All of the staff were very sad to hear about his passing,'' Sir Bayard said.

As a producer, Mr. Darrid was responsible for Broadway versions of "The Disenchanted'' with Jason Robards Jr., and "The Andersonville Trial'' with George C. Scott as the director and star.

Mr. Darrid moved to Los Angeles in the 1970s, where he wrote the novels "Solomon Moon'', and "The Blooding''. He also wrote screenplays and TV scripts.

"Hart,'' his screen treatment on the life of poet Hart Crane, was to be produced by Michael Douglas' production company this fall.

Mr. Darrid's nephew lawyer Mr. Nicholas Dill yesterday remembered him as "a person with a great sense of humour''.

"He got along well with everyone he met. He never had a cross word for anyone,'' Mr. Dill said.

He fondly recalled that Mr. Darrid organised a family tennis shield at Ariel Sands every winter.

Mr. Dill's brother, David, travelled to California on Monday to be with Mr.

Darrid's surviving family, including Ms Dill, Michael Douglas, and his brother Joell.

A service was held yesterday in Los Angeles.

At his request, Mr. Darrid's ashes are expected to be brought to Bermuda.