(Photo: Getty Images)
British illustrator Raymond Briggs, whose beloved children's book The Snowman was adapted into an enduringly popular festive TV movie, has died at age 88. 
Confirming his death in a statement to Reuters, Briggs' family said: "We know that Raymond’s books were loved by and touched millions of people around the world, who will be sad to hear this news. Drawings from fans – especially children's drawings – inspired by his books were treasured by Raymond, and pinned up on the wall of his studio."
Published in 1978, Briggs' wordless picture book The Snowman tells the story of a boy who builds a snowman that comes to life. They play, have a meal together, and even enjoy a magical flight over the English countryside before the snowman inevitably melts away.
Four years after the book came out, The Snowman was adapted by Channel 4 into an animated short film that has become a staple of the British festive TV schedules. For the original U.K. broadcast, Briggs recorded a short intro message that you can watch below. David Bowie recorded a new intro for the U.S. broadcast and VHS release.

Briggs' other popular children's books included 1973's Father Christmas, 1977's Fungus the Bogeyman, and 1998's Ethel & Ernest.  The latter, which was based on Briggs' own parents and upbringing in Wimbledon, Southwest London, was adapted into a 2016 animated film starring Brenda Blethyn and Jim Broadbent.
In 2017, Briggs received a CBE accolade from Queen Elizabeth II for services to literature. He is survived by his step-children and step-grandchildren through longtime partner Liz, who died in 2015.
Rest in peace, Raymond Briggs, and thank you for your contribution.