J Edward Oliver was born in Dartford, Kent on June 19th 1942, a day after James Paul McCartney. From his earliest days he was interested in cartoon strips, and was drawing his own comic books by the age of 8.

Jack went to Dartford Grammar School (as did Mick Jagger), then left to work in the GLC Vehicle Licensing Department for 8 years, still producing comics.

The turning point was the first issue of Instant Garbage, followed by the first Toppo D Popps. This got Jack his first major exposure drawing for Disc (and Music Echo), producing a hugely popular and long-running strip.

The paper later became Record Mirror, and JEO's strip expanded in size to a full page. In addition, he took on other duties, writing letters and stories and producing graphics for other purposes and other strips.

When this finished, in 1977, JEO went to work for IPC Juvenile Publications, doing many strips including the famous Cliff Hanger in Buster and the Champ. JEO's strips regularly appeared in Buster, Whizzer and Chips, Whoopee, but, by the late 1990s, these comics had closed.

He also wrote the lyrics and did the publicity for a musical called Swan Esther that was produced at London's Young Vic theatre. The soundtrack album was published and is a collector's item.

In 2001 JEO's work appeared in the autobiography of Bob Harris, UK disc jockey and presenter. Included was JEO's version of The Old Grey Whistle Test.

In 2002, J Edward Oliver reached 60. Despite thinking he would not reach this great age, he had no plans for retirement. Among his recent efforts:

• Russell the Mussell
• Wimoweh Greetings Cards
• a daily strip for Fresco-Le-Raye

and more, including the Invisible Man strips. He was always a big fan of 3D pictures and technology.

In 2007 Jack was diagnosed with cancer. He married long-time girlfriend Liz in March 2007 and died in May 2007.