Joyce Churchill – the wife of rugby league icon Clive – has died at the age of 99.
The champion fullback, who was one of rugby league’s original Immortals, died in 1985 and was survived by his wife and his son Rod.
Joyce had been a feature at many NRL events after her husband’s passing, most notably handing out the coveted Clive Churchill Medal after the grand final.
She famously attended South Sydney’s drought-breaking 2014 grand final victory, which marked the first premiership since Clive coached the side to glory in 1971.
The league released a statement on Wednesday night paying tribute to Churchill.
“The ARLC and the NRL are deeply saddened by the passing of Joyce Churchill, aged 99,” the statement said.
“Joyce Churchill was a staunch and passionate supporter of rugby league and proud representative of her late husband, Immortal Clive Churchill.
“The legacy of the Clive Churchill Medal will live on thanks to the extraordinary contributions of Clive and Joyce Churchill.
“We send our deepest condolences to Joyce Churchill’s family and friends, as well as those who were touched by her generosity and support.”
Churchill played 158 games for the Rabbitohs during his incredible career and is still regarded as one of the sport’s greatest-ever players.
He played 38 games for Australia and was dubbed “The Little Master” due to his immense skill despite being small in stature.
After hanging up the boots, he coached South Sydney on 229 occasions as well as leading Northern Suburbs and Canterbury.
Churchill also coached 29 games for Australia and three for Queensland.
