Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
DUBBO product Charly Runciman was one of many in the rugby league world to pay tribute to former St George flyer Brian Johnson.
The premiership winner died at the age of 59 after a long-time battle with Alzheimer's Disease and is survived by his wife Karen and two sons," the statement read.
Johnson joined the Dragons in 1979 and scored in the club's 17-13 grand final victory over Canterbury in his first season.
The 1980 Dally M Fullback of the Year winner scored 55 tries from more than 120 first-grade games during a seven-year career with St George.
Johnson switched to then Eastern Suburbs in 1986 before linking with English club Warrington as a player and coach.
He was also instrumental in helping Runciman early in his career, and the former St George-Illawarra and now Widnes Vikings outside back paid his respects in a post on Facebook.
"Really sad to hear about the passing of Brian Johnson this morning back home," Runciman said.
"He was a great coach for me when I was playing fullback growing up, I know how much he was also loved over here especially at Warrington as well as the Dragons.
"He told me it takes talent, hard work but mostly a little bit of luck to get an opportunity to play first grade and I don't think he could have been more right. Thanks for everything Johnno. Rest easy mate."
Legendary Roosters halfback Kevin Hastings also paid tribute to his former teammate.
"Sad to hear of the passing of Brian Johnson. St George Easts and Warrington fullback. Too young RIP," Hastings tweeted.
As coach from 1988-96, Johnson steered Warrington to Lancashire Cup and Regal Trophy successes and was at the helm when Warrington lost to Wigan in the Challenge Cup final at Wembley in 1990.
A Warrington spokesman said: "All at the club are saddened to hear of the passing of former Wire player and coach Brian Johnson. Our thoughts are with all who knew him."
After his time in England, Johnson coached Australian Institute of Sport teams before returning to the Dragons to take up a coaching role which saw him lead the club to the NSWRL first division premiership in 2001.