Dave was found dead during the morning of October 22 at the age of 64.

His passing was announced on his Instagram account where it was reported that he took his own life at his home in Plumstead.

Dave, who claimed to be an associate of 1960s gangland criminals the Kray twins, swapped an earlier life of crime for writing books in his later years.

The 64-year-old named his home “Camelot Castle” tucked away on Chestnut Rise.

His home, a former school turned mansion, was reportedly decked with golden lions, Union Jacks, a peephole sniper statue, a replica of King Arthur's Sword in the Stone, and even a sculpted bust of his own head, according to The Mail.

In his final Facebook post, Dave could be seen watching Charlton Athletic win 4-0 against Reading on Saturday.

The ex-criminal enjoyed the “full works” at The Valley stadium, eating a three-course meal.

Just yesterday, ex-gangster Dave Courtney was smiling at The Valley as he watched Charlton win 4-0.

Today he was found dead, with his family saying he took his own life "with a firearm".

Always reach out to your loved ones, RIP Dave Courtney.https://t.co/r8jJT9tRdO pic.twitter.com/J1VWwskHPa

— Alex Croft (@alxcroft) October 22, 2023

Dave was rumoured to be the inspiration behind Vinnie Jones’s character in Guy Ritchie’s gangster film Lock, Stock, And Two Smoking Barrels.

He wrote six books and dabbled in acting, starring in the film Hell To Pay.

Dave's family issued a statement paying homage to his "incredible, colourful, rock ‘n’ roll life".

His family posted a statement on X that said: “On October 22 2023, Dave made the decision to stop the ride.

“He had lived an incredible, colourful, rock ‘n’ roll life in which he touched the hearts of so many.

“The physical pain of living the lifestyle he chose, especially due to the pain of both cancer and arthritis in his later years, became too much.”

His fans and friends took to Instagram to pay tribute to Dave on the death announcement posts.

Manlikehaks wrote: “Ahhh man I’m broken. Rest in peace uncle Courtney was a pleasure to be around u and film with you #legend.”

jess_impiazzi added: “I’m so devastated to read this! Dave has always shown me nothing but kindness and a true gentleman whenever I saw him! RIP Dave such sad news :( x”

jamkvy wrote: “A Plumstead legend. Was a pleasure working with you King.”

chelseasinghlondon added: “Devastated can’t believe it! Thank you for all the good times the memories the advice and help! You was one of a kind a real gentleman with a big heart you will truly be missed by all that knew you! RIP”

shoredecors wrote: “Such sad news, sending love to the people he left behind, didn’t know him personally but read all his books and loved hearing his stories! R.I.P”

be.c.mitch added: “RIP absolutely tragic. I've read his books over the years, and I finally got to meet him at a party he hosted at Camelot in 2022. My condolences to all of his family, and close friends.”

mcchalkiewhite said: “You will be always remembered buddy in 35 years we have always been close and your family and friends will carry you in there hearts forever you wasn't only a legend but a friend to everyone you met making time for everyone. Gonna miss you DC @davidcourtneyobe your pal and thanks for the game of pool that I won. Condolences to you whole family until we meet again. RIEP xx”

tony.h.sales wrote: ”R.I.P. bro South London lost a legend today. Love you bro.”