Yvonne Fogarty and Gary Williams

Gary Williams lived an extraordinary life, and table tennis was a cherished part of his journey. His connection to the sport began in Dunedin, where, at just 11 years old, he won the South Island Under 16 Boys’ Singles title. This early success marked the beginning of a junior career filled with achievement. Gary went on to win multiple national junior titles between 1966 and 1968 across singles, doubles and mixed doubles, showcasing his early talent and promise.

Mixed doubles became a particularly special part of his playing days, especially with his long-time partner and TTNZ Hall of Fame member, Yvonne Fogarty. Yvonne recalls those years fondly, remembering how they won several national titles together. She shared that Gary “was a delight to play with”, and that his passing is a real loss to table tennis in New Zealand.

Growing up in the 1960s and 70s, sport was central to the social lives of young people, and Gary embraced it fully. Known affectionately as “The Bear”, he stood out for both his presence and his sporting ability. Alongside table tennis, he represented Otago in first-class cricket, played senior club rugby, and built a lifelong passion for basketball.

After completing his accounting degree at Otago University, Gary later moved to Auckland and became a key member of the North Shore Table Tennis Association men’s team. His love of sport led him overseas, and while living in Bermuda in the early 1980s, he achieved a special milestone by representing the island at the World Table Tennis Championships.

Later, family and business life took priority, and Gary spent many years involved in basketball. But table tennis returned to him in a meaningful way through the 2014 World Veterans Championships in Auckland, where he played an important role on the organising committee. As former TTNZ CEO John Lea reflected, inviting Gary onto the committee was “an inspired decision”. John remembers his “relentless enthusiasm”, his warm and affable nature, and how quickly he became an inspirational figure in every table tennis environment. Gary cared deeply about creating places where people enjoyed being together, and he invested an enormous amount of volunteer time, always offering help quietly and without fuss.

Gary’s impact naturally led him to the TTNZ Board, where he later served as Chair from May 2015 to 2018. John recalls how Gary’s love of interacting with people across the country helped him understand the challenges and aspirations of the wider community, allowing him to make improvements in many areas.

Alongside these reflections, TTNZ Board Member Barry Griffiths and Olympian #554 shared his own memories:

“I first remember seeing Gary when I started playing table tennis. He was a defensive player with amazing retrieving abilities and I recall him being one of the top players in New Zealand. He seemed like a big, cuddly bear to me and was always quick with a smile or a joke. I looked up to him both literally and as one of my table tennis heroes.

My last memory of Gary was having a chat with him at the NZ Open Champs in Auckland in September 2025. Gary was President of the North Shore Table Tennis Association. We discussed ways in which we could help table tennis to progress and grow in New Zealand. Gary had a huge heart for table tennis and was always willing to contribute.  Gary will be sorely missed and was a great man in our sport of table tennis.”

After his time on the Board, Gary channelled his energy into rebuilding and strengthening the North Shore Table Tennis Association. His leadership, vision and enthusiasm helped the association grow in both numbers and performance. His proudest moment came in 2024 when North Shore won both the men’s and women’s national teams titles, a dream he had worked towards for many years.

The North Shore Table Tennis Association has also expressed its deep sorrow:

“We are deeply saddened by the passing of Gary Williams. Gary was not only our leader but also a dear friend and mentor to many. His dedication, kindness, and lifelong commitment to the sport shaped our community and inspired generations of players. His legacy will live on through the values and passion he shared with us all.  We will carry forward his spirit with gratitude and respect.”
— Annatta Yi, Secretary, North Shore Table Tennis Association

TTNZ Board Member Murray Finch also described Gary as a man of ideas and vision, someone whose passion and energy made him “a force of nature when he set his mind to something”. Murray remembered his ability to relate to people at every level and make them feel valued, a quality that shaped every role he undertook. He said Gary’s loss “will be felt for a very long time”.

TTNZ Board Chair and Olympian #400 Chris Arthur also paid her tribute:

“Gary dedicated so much of his life to table tennis, and his contribution to the table tennis community will always be remembered. He led with passion and with an unwavering commitment to helping others. Whether as a player, volunteer, or leader, he brought people together and made them feel welcome.

We are grateful for everything he gave, and his legacy will continue to guide and inspire us.”

John Lea also reflected on Gary’s extraordinary generosity of time and resources. Gary often appeared quietly at events, offering help wherever needed and chatting with officials, players and spectators. He supported bold initiatives in Para table tennis, AIMS programmes, junior development, and advocated strongly for volunteers and officials. He cared about making national and open events more affordable, ensuring facilities were well used, and providing support to dedicated players.

Gary Williams lived his life fully and gave his best to others. His contribution to table tennis in New Zealand spans generations, regions and communities, and his legacy will continue to influence the sport for many years to come.

Table Tennis New Zealand acknowledges Gary’s remarkable service with deep gratitude and extends our sincere condolences to his family.

If you have more stories, anecdotes or photos you may wish to share about Gary, please send these to laura@tabletennis.nz.