Tragedy as ‘much-loved and inspirational’ Olympian, 57, who competed at three Games dies after short illness
A “MUCH-LOVED and inspirational” British Olympian who competed at three Games has died after a short illness.
Tributes have been paid to former Team GB fencer James Williams who died aged 57 after dedicating his life to serving Britain.
British Fencing said he was a “much respected” member of the fencing community, who had been a board member, Olympic team manager and Sabre coach.
He competed at the Olympics in Barcelona in 1992, Atlanta in 1996, and Sydney in 2000.
His best result was at the 1998 Commonwealth Fencing Federation Games in Kuala Lumpur where he was part of the gold winning England team.
He also was the official commentator and presented at the London 2012 Olympic Games.
Williams was more recently the Director of Public Health for Medway Council in Kent.
The Council said in a tribute: “James was in particular recognised as a leading light in Kent and Medway’s response to COVID-19.
“His knowledge, expertise, drive and direction ensured that the council and partners were able to keep the people of Medway safe and his work helped to save many lives.”
Cllr Teresa Murray, Deputy Leader and Portfolio Holder for Public Health, said: “James was very much an Olympian in all senses of the word.
“His passion for focusing on building resilience within communities and his focus on intervention at an early stage to prevent the development of poor health has meant that the people of Medway are leading better, healthier lives as a result of his hard work.”
He was from Huddersfield, West Yorkshire, and started to fence while serving in the British Army for 10 years.
In a 2023 clip posted by Team GB on X, Williams said he would always champion the underdog “because I know what it’s like to be an underdog.
“I will always use the opportunity where I can to diversify, to ensure that people from whatever background, whatever creed, colour, or religion, get an opportunity to achieve their potential.”
Other people paid tribute on social media to a “incredibly passionate, articulate and compassionate person.”
One person said: “Such a loss for everyone who knew him, thoughts are with his family who must be devastated. As a colleague and leader James was absolutely top of his field, what a loss. Taken far too soon.”
A second person wrote: “Shocked and saddened at the terrible loss of James. Sincere condolences to the family and to colleagues in Medway.”
While a third posted: “Such a massive loss. James was the sweetest man who would always take time to talk to people. My deepest condolences to his family.”