- Sad announcement was recently made on social media
The rugby league community is continuing to pay tribute to Terry Williams, after the revered historian and author died aged 62.
Williams served as a long-time historian for the NSW Rugby League and Newtown Jets.
He also previously held the position of curator of the NRL Museum at Sydney’s Rugby League Central at Moore Park.
His father was former Newtown Jets identity Warren Williams.
Williams was a super fan of the club all his life, and wrote the books Out of the Blue in 1993 and Through Blue Eyes.
‘NSWRL was deeply saddened to hear of the passing of renowned Rugby League historian and author Terry Williams,’ NSWRL said in a statement.
The rugby league community is continuing to pay tribute to Terry Williams, after the revered historian and author died aged 62
Williams served as a historian for the NSW Rugby League and his beloved Newtown Jets
‘Terry’s contribution to rugby league spanned decades, during which time he became one of the most knowledgeable storytellers of the sport’s history.
‘His deep understanding of the game, its people and its stories made the museum a place of learning and connection for countless visitors.’
Williams went on to establish the Sydney League News magazine in the 1990s.
In 2018, he wrote and co-produced the film Headgear to Helmets, which told the story of men who went from being rugby league players to war heroes.
Footy fanatics have since honoured Williams with numerous heart-warming messages on social media.
‘He was an absolute wealth of knowledge in the game’s history. A sad loss is an understatement,’ fellow historian and commentator Andrew Ferguson said.
‘He will most certainly be missed,’ another added. ‘Oh, that’s terrible news. Very sad,’ wrote another.
Williams passed away just hours after his beloved Jets launched their 2026 season.
Details of his funeral will be announced in the coming days.
