Wales Rugby Legend, Famed for Fearless Flair, Passes Away at 74 After Brave Battle With Meningitis

In the most unfortunate development, the rugby legend of Wales, John Peter Rhys Williams, has breathed his last on Monday. His family stated the bacterial meningitis the cause of the death. Bridgend Ravens, the club that was very dear to Williams throughout his lifetime, confirmed the news of his death. It’s worth reflecting back on this legend’s life who “spent half my life breaking bones on the rugby field.”

As per the announcement, Williams was 74 years old at the time of his demise. As the club mourns his passing, let us look back at the golden career of JPR Williams. 

JPR Williams: A legendary persona in the realm of rugby

Bridgend Ravens mentioned in their statement, “Bridgend Ravens are devastated to announce the passing of JPR Williams.” Williams was one of the greats during the 1970s. His aggressive play coupled with his tactical mindset made him a force to reckon with. His exceptional antics could be attributed to when Williams played a huge role in the Lions’ 2-1 series triumph over the Kiwis. This was the last time a feat of this magnitude was achieved by a Lions outfit and has not been repeated since 1971. 

Williams also had significant contributions to the Lions’ 1974 South Africa tour and the Barbarians’ 23-11 victory over New Zealand in 1973. It was during this time that the moniker ‘JPR’ became popular with the fans. Williams earned this moniker as fans started to distinguish him from his Wales teammate, John JJ Williams. JPR Williams held the distinction of belonging to an elite class of athletes to have won the Grand Slam. 

Besides being a legendary character in the field, Williams also worked as an orthopaedic physician at the Royal College of Surgeons. Reflecting on the contrasting nature of his profession, Williams stated in his book: “I used to say that I spent half my life breaking bones on the rugby field, then the other half putting them back together in the operating theatre.” With the passing of such a remarkable personality, several people have expressed their grief. 

Family and peers mourn the passing of JPR Williams

Acknowledging his accomplishments, the governing body, World Rugby, termed Williams as one of the greatest athletes to have ever graced the sport. Williams spent a significant amount of time donning the coveted jersey of the Ravens. However, after his retirement, his connections with the club only grew stronger as Williams was entitled to the position of the club president.

Bridgend Ravens, elaborating on his career, stated, “An icon of the world game, John Peter Rhys Williams served Bridgend Ravens as a player and most recently as club president… (Career highlights) included three (Five Nations) Grand Slams in 1971, 1976 and 1978 for Wales.” 

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In a heartfelt statement, Williams’ family said that the legend breathed his last at the University Hospital of Wales. They also mentioned that the late 74-year-old suffered from a brief illness before succumbing. As the family requested for privacy, it was revealed that Williams left behind four children and his wife. 

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