Former Northern Territory administrator, musician, author and Territory icon Ted Egan has died aged 93, his family confirmed Thursday.

Mr Egan died at his home in Alice Springs early Thursday morning and will be given a state funeral.

“It is with sadness but also great pride that Nerys Evans and the Egan family mark the passing of our beloved partner, father, grandfather, great grandfather and best mate,” the family’s statement said.

“Ted passed peacefully at home this morning, as was his wish. We shared Ted with Territorians, Australians and the wider world.

“He lived a big and very generous life, spanning 93 years.”

Mr Egan was born in Victoria in 1932 and moved to the Territory in 1949, later forming what is now known as the St Mary’s football club.

He recorded 30 folk music albums and wrote 15 books and was the NT’s 16th administrator, serving from 2003 to 2007.

Many of Mr Egan’s songs showcased life in the Northern Territory, including songs about Aboriginal land rights. He will be remembered for his strong advocacy for Indigenous rights.

In 2004, Mr Egan was made an Office of the Order of Australia (AO) for his outstanding contributions to the country.

Current Administrator Hugh Heggie issued a statement expressing his “deep sadness” upon hearing of Mr Egan’s passing.

“We thank Ted for his great service to Territorians, to Australian song, literature, and the arts, and as administrator of the Northern Territory. Our deepest condolences to all who knew and loved him,” Mr Heggie said.

“Our thoughts are with Nerys and their family during this difficult time. They are embraced by the love and gratitude of Territorians, whose stories continue to remind us how deeply Ted Egan was cherished.

“His enduring legacy is woven into the Territory’s cultural celebration, its music and storytelling, and its spirit of caring for one another. The love of the Territory and its people was at the heart of his life’s work, and that devotion will remain a lasting gift carried forward by all who call the Northern Territory home.”

Chief Minister Lia Finocchiaro said in a statement that a state funeral will be held for Mr Egan.

“On behalf of the Northern Territory Government, I extend my deepest condolences on the passing of former Administrator of the Northern Territory, Ted Egan AO,” she said.

“Ted was not only a distinguished administrator, but also a much-loved Territorian, storyteller and musician who captured the spirit of the NT in word and song. His decades of service to the Northern Territory and his commitment to sharing our history have left a profound and lasting legacy.

“We thank Ted for his extraordinary contribution to public life and to the cultural heart of the Territory. Our thoughts are with his wife Nerys and their family, friends and all who knew and loved him.

“A state funeral will be held to honour Ted’s service and commitment. Further details will be announced in the coming weeks.”