Dr. Johannes Gerhardus "John" Williams, a distinguished former Springbok lock (13 tests, 1971-1976) and South Africa's first post-isolation national coach, has passed away at the age of 78 in December 2024 after battling leukemia. A formidable player and an insightful coach who also led the Bulls to Currie Cup titles, Dr. Williams' significant contributions to South African rugby will be deeply missed by the sporting fraternity and all who knew him.