'Sporting icon and true gentleman' Rugby league icon Sir Billy Boston dies just weeks after wife

Sir Billy Boston, one of the all-time greats of rugby league, has died aged 92.

The sport’s first ever knight’s passing came just weeks after his 92nd birthday and the loss of his beloved wife of 70 years Lady Joan.

Within minutes of the announcement, tributes began flooding in and Wigan Council announced that flags would be flown at half mast.

And they were led by Prime Minister and Makerfield MP Andy Burnham.

He said: “ Heartbroken to hear my friend Sir Billy Boston has died. Billy was one of the greatest rugby league players of all time but also one of the kindest and most down-to-earth people you could ever wish to meet.

“He always had time for people and gave so much to back to his adopted home, Wigan. I will miss him greatly and am thinking today of Billy’s family, still grieving the recent loss of his beloved wife Joan. A giant of a man in every way. Thank you, Billy, and rest in peace.”

Wigan Warriors owner Mike Danson said: “Billy Boston was everybody’s hero, including my Mum’s.

“His achievements in rugby league were extraordinary, and his knighthood was a fitting recognition of a career that brought great credit to Wigan and to the game. But Billy’s legacy was not simply what he achieved. It was the humility with which he carried it. Despite everything he accomplished, he remained a quiet, dignified and deeply respected man.

“He leaves behind an example that will endure for generations. Our thoughts are with his family and those closest to him. A great man, and a true Wigan legend. He will be remembered with pride and affection.”

Chairman Prof Chris Brooks said: “I and everyone at Wigan Rugby League Club are deeply saddened by Sir Billy’s death- a man who was a Rugby League icon, a magnificent ambassador for our Sport and most of all, a wonderful man.

“Sir Billy was humble, kind and generous, epitomising all that is good about Wigan Rugby League and richly deserved the distinction of being appointed- albeit much overdue- Rugby League’s first knight.

“During his investiture at Buckingham Palace, King Charles was captivated by Billy who enjoyed sharing wonderful anecdotes with the King about his origins in Tiger Bay and his thrilling life in Rugby League.

“And what a career Billy enjoyed including being catapulted into selection for the 1954 Great Britain Tour of Australia and New Zealand after a mere 4 games for Wigan! Of course, he went on to score tries galore whenever he pulled on the famous Red, White and Blue or Cherry and White jerseys! Remarkable that way back in that year 1954, Billy had no alternative than to leave his beloved Tiger Bay to pursue his Rugby career.

“Although fiercely proud of his roots, he told me of standing-kit bag in hand - at the bus stop outside Cardiff RFC’s ground, waiting to catch the bus to training at Neath. An incredibly sad moment for him as it was his colour which was the impediment to allowing him to represent his home town Club.

“How significant and poignant then, that the people of Wigan- and the wider Rugby League Community- welcomed Billy with open arms, recognised his extraordinary talent as a player and celebrated him for the only thing that matters- his unique ability and talent.

“Without doubt, it was my greatest honour to walk out at Wembley with him leading the Wigan Team onto the pitch before the 2024 Challenge Cup Final- a match at which the Chief Guest was Martin Offiah.

“In the lift back up to the Royal Box after the presentations, Billy was clear to Martin that it was he Billy that was the most famous winger to have represented our most storied of Clubs! There was no comeback for Martin after Billy reminded him of the three statues in his honour, at Wembley, in Tiger Bay and of course in Believe Square in Wigan!

“Respected, revered and loved by all, wherever he went Billy was the star of the show and the man everyone wanted to meet, shake hands with and of course secure that most famous of autographs! I was proud indeed to call him my friend and he will be forever in all our thoughts and hearts. My prayers and deepest condolences to Billy’s wonderful family.”

Wigan MP and secretary of state for culture, media and sport, Lisa Nandy said: “Absolutely devastated to learn that the legendary Sir Billy Boston has died aged 92.

“He was, in my view, the greatest rugby league player of all time and one of the nicest people I’ve had the privilege to know. Sending all my love to Sir Billy’s loved ones, and to the rugby league family as we mourn one of our brightest stars.”

St Helens North MP David Baines said: “ A working class hero. A gentleman. A leader. An inspiration. Rugby League’s first Knight. His legend will only grow.

“My thoughts are with his family at this desperately sad time. Rest in peace, Sir Billy Boston.”

A spokesperson for Wigan Council said: “Everyone at Wigan Council is heartbroken by the news that Sir Billy Boston has passed away.

“Our thoughts and deepest condolences are with his family, friends and all those who knew and admired him. It is difficult to put into words Sir Billy's impact on our borough. He was a pioneer, a sporting icon and a true gentleman whose achievements were inspirational. We were incredibly proud to see him become the first person in rugby league history to receive a knighthood in 2025, a thoroughly deserved honour that recognised both his extraordinary sporting achievements and his lasting contribution to society.

“Sir Billy was also one of the first recipients of a Believe Star, and his statue stands proudly in Believe Square as a lasting reminder of his remarkable legacy and the pride he brought to Wigan borough. As a mark of respect, our town halls will be illuminated and our ceremonial flags will be flown at half-mast.

“Alongside our friends and colleagues at Wigan Warriors, and with the wider rugby league and sporting communities, we will play our part in paying tribute to a remarkable man who was so deeply loved and respected by so many. Sir Billy's legacy will endure for generations to come, and he will never be forgotten in our borough. “

Best-selling author and Wigan rugby fan Paul Finch wrote: “Farewell to Wigan Rugby League's greatest ever player. Billy Boston, 'the Cardiff Express,' finally checks out at the ripe old age of 92. Not a bad innings for anyone, but Wigan will come to a standstill. One of our finest adopted sons. Legendary player, legendary pub landlord, legendary raconteur. He will be massively missed.”

The charity Joining Jack posted: “ Everyone at Joining Jack would like to pay our respects to a sporting icon, Wigan Warriors legend Sir Billy Boston, who has passed away surrounded by his family.

“Sir Billy was a fantastic supporter of the charity. He became Rugby League’s first knight earlier this year and was a true hero on and off the field. Rest in peace, Sir Billy, legend! “ Sir Billy had been battling dementia for many years but that hadn’t stopped him getting out and about to public engagements and attending Wigan Warriors matches at the stadium which has a stand named after him.

Only last year was he the first person connected with the world of rugby league to be knighted and he attended Buckingham Palace at a special personal ceremony with the King arranged by the then Makerfield MP Josh Simons. There had been anger that it had taken so long for the RL world to get its first knight and there was also sadness that it had come so late in Sir Billy’s life when he wasn’t able to enjoy and appreciate the honour as much as he would have done if it had come years ago.