Rugby legend Chester Williams was given an emotional send-off at Newlands Stadium on Saturday where thousands of mourners, including his family, rugby royalty, celebrities and politicians, gathered.
The former Springbok, who was part of the squad which won the Rugby World Cup in 1995, was showered with praise by his fans and his bereaved family.
Guests at the funeral included family friend, Minister of Public Works Patricia de Lille; Minister of Sports, Arts and Culture Nathi Mthethwa; singer PJ Powers who sang a
rendition of the 1995 World Cup anthem, World in Union; and some of the 1995 Springbok team, including former captain Francois Pienaar.
LEGENDS: Breyton Paulse and Bryan Habana. Pics: Phando Jikelo/ANA
It was a sombre moment when his white coffin, covered with the national flag arrived, a final trip to the stadium where he had experienced many moments of glory as a Western Province winger.
Western Cape Premier Alan Winde handed the flag to
Williams’ family in accordance with state funeral protocol.
Chester, who coached the UWC rugby team, died a week ago at the age of 49, after suffering a heart attack.
His death came as a shock to many as Chester kept fit.
TEARFUL: Twins Matthew and Chloe with Maria. Picture: Phando Jikelo
His widow, Maria, said she had used the week since his passing to recollect her life with the rugby superstar and how she would raise their three
children in his absence.
“I’ve had time to reflect on my life with a man I adored, loved, respected and admired and will cherish our love
forever. He was and always will be the best father,” she said.
She pledged to continue with the work of the Chester
Williams Foundation.
Shedding tears while paying tribute to her famous dad, Chester’s daughter, Chloe, said her dad was her hero and she wished she could see him and give him a kiss one last time.
TRIBUTE: Daughter Chloe said Chester was her hero. Picture: Phando Jikelo
SA Rugby legend Morne du Plessis described his former teammate as having been small in stature, but brave and an exceptional player.
On Thursday, supporters packed the Boland Park cricket stadium in Chester’s hometown of Paarl to bid him farewell.
During a memorial service at UWC on Wednesday, De Lille, who is a close friend of the family, announced that President Cyril Ramaphosa had declared Chester’s funeral a special provincial event.
National flags were flown half-mast throughout the province in memory of Chester on Saturday.
President Cyril Ramaphosa declared Chester’s funeral a special provincial event. Picture: Phando Jikelo