The Chairman of Centro, councillor Angus Adams, died suddenly on April 10, aged 67.
Cllr Adams was taken ill at the home of his partner, Jennie. He leaves two daughters and three grandchildren.
He had been Chairman of the Integrated Transport Authority (ITA) since 2010, and was a Conservative member of Dudley Metropolitan Borough Council.
Cllr Jon Hunt, Vice-Chairman of Centro, said: “This is a very sad loss of a thoroughly decent man and everyone at Centro sends their sincere condolences to his family.
“Angus leaves the ITA in extremely good shape, with major investment coming in to the region and services maintained in difficult times.
“As ITA chairman he was a very effective regional diplomat. He was a pleasure to work with and he will be greatly missed.”
Geoff Inskip, Centro Chief Executive, said: “We are going to sorely miss the drive, experience and enthusiasm of Angus Adams.
“He was a visionary who worked hard to deliver a world-class public transport system for the people of the West Midlands and the wider region.
“His commitment to his role as chairman was matched in no small part by a mischievous sense of humour that endeared him to everyone.”
Cllr Les Jones, Leader of Dudley Council, said: “I am deeply saddened to hear the tragic news of Cllr Angus Adams, who was a well-respected colleague and close personal friend.
“Angus was a very experienced and highly valued member of the cabinet, who was 100% committed to the council and its residents. “Angus was very popular and a real character and the news of his passing has come as a terrible shock to everyone.
“Our thoughts are with Angus’ family at this sad and difficult time.”
Cllr Mark Dowd, who chairs the ITA Special Interest Group, said: “I was deeply saddened to hear the news about Cllr Adams. He was a man of character, with a real commitment to serving the interests of public transport, and the people of the West Midlands.”
