BRYAN WILLIAMS

(September 14, 1932 – September 4, 2025) The Hon. Bryan Williams, KC - husband, father, brother, grandfather, uncle, and friend, passed away on September 4, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of advocacy, leadership, and humanity that touched countless lives across British Columbia, throughout Canada and internationally. Bryan was predeceased by his wife of 63 years, Audrey, and by his parents, Rupert and Hilda Williams. He is survived by his sister, Valerie Dyke (Dave); brothers-in-law, Kenneth Downie (Mary) and John Downie (Barb); his children, Lori (Holly), Jordan (Audra), Todd (Louise), and Shannon (Anthony); his cherished grandchildren, Evan, Graham, Jett, Noah, Gracie, Robyn, Elyse, and Juliet; and his nieces and nephews. Born in Calgary and raised in Courtenay and Comox, Bryan spent his childhood exploring the Comox Valley. At age 18, he arrived at UBC, where he earned degrees in Commerce and Law. In 1956, Bryan met Audrey as they each were returning from trips to Europe. They married in 1958 and settled in West Vancouver, raising their four children in a home by the ocean. After graduating from law school in 1956, Bryan worked at Swinton and Company (later Miller Thomson) until he was appointed to the bench in 1995. During his 40 years as a lawyer, Bryan worked tirelessly and represented a wide range of clients and causes. Often known as a "champion of the underdog," he worked on many high-profile, ground-breaking cases that had a meaningful impact on peoples' lives. From the 1975 BC Penitentiary hostage taking that laid bare the inhumane conditions at the prison, to chairing the Wilderness Advisory Committee recommending the creation and expansion of wilderness parks in BC, to arguing Delgamuukw v. British Columbia at the BC Court of Appeal - a case that has fundamentally shaped how aboriginal title is understood and protected under Canadian law - Bryan's contributions have left a lasting legacy. In 1995, Bryan was appointed to the BC Court of Appeal. The following year, he became Chief Justice of the British Columbia Supreme Court, a position he held until his retirement in May 2000. During his time as Chief Justice, Bryan implemented important innovations to improve access to justice, including alternative dispute resolution and video conferencing. Bryan's interests and energy were boundless. He was a dedicated volunteer, giving his time to numerous professional and community organizations. He served as President of the Canadian Bar Association, founding president of the Canadian Bar Association Law for the Future Fund, a director of the World Wildlife Fund Canada, a strong supporter of both the federal and provincial Liberal Party, a fellow of the American College of Trial Lawyers, chair of the BC Law Reform Commission, chair of the BC Legal Aid Society, served on the Canadian Human Rights Tribunal, and served as permanent chair of a number of arbitration committees. In 1990, Bryan was awarded a Doctor of Laws from the University of Victoria, a recognition he cherished. Bryan loved to be with his family. The lively dinner table discussions he led instilled in his children an appreciation and respect for Indigenous peoples, the environment, and social justice. He also spearheaded many outrageous and memorable family adventures. Bryan was an avid fly fisherman, enjoying both the cast and the catch. He skied at Whistler with friends and family from 1968 until he turned 80 in 2012. With Audrey by his side, he explored the BC coast by sailboat and traveled much of the world. His was, indeed, a life well lived.