Emeritus Professor Johannes Philippus (JP) van Niekerk was one of the most influential figures in the development of palliative care in South Africa. His sudden passing in December 2025 marked the loss of a leader whose work helped shape the philosophy, ethics, and institutional foundations of the sector. As the Association of Palliative Care Centres (APCC), formerly the Hospice Palliative Care Association (HPCA), we honour his decades of service, advocacy, and principled leadership. A leader from the beginning Prof van Niekerk was involved with the Hospice Palliative Care Association from its inception and served as founding Chair from 1993 to 2006. In later years, he continued to support the organisation as a patron, offering guidance and advocacy for the growth and sustainability of palliative care services across the country. His leadership during HPCA’s formative years helped establish hospice and palliative care as essential components of South Africa’s health system rather than peripheral or charitable add-ons. He championed the integration of palliative care into mainstream health services and consistently emphasised the importance of dignity, compassion, and equitable access for people facing life-limiting illness. A career defined by principle and public service Prof van Niekerk’s contribution to palliative care was rooted in a broader career marked by academic leadership, ethical clarity, and a commitment to strengthening health systems. Key roles included: Dean of the Faculty of Health Sciences at the University of Cape Town (1990–1998) Emeritus Editor of the South African Medical Journal (SAMJ) Founder of several medical journals, including the South African Journal of Bioethics and Law President of the South African Medical Association (SAMA) President of the Association of Medical Schools of Africa Executive member of the World Federation for Medical Education, where he helped develop global standards for medical education These roles positioned him as a national and international leader in medical ethics, education, and health‑system reform. Champion for patient dignity and ethical care Throughout his career, Prof van Niekerk advocated for humane, patient-centred care. His work in bioethics shaped national conversations on end-of-life decision-making, pain management, and the rights of patients with life-limiting illness. He was a strong proponent of equitable access to quality palliative care, especially for people facing inadequate support structures or systemic barriers to care. In his later years, he became a prominent voice in the national debate on assisted dying. His 2024 SAMJ editorial, “Decriminalising and Legalising Assisted Dying,” co‑authored with Prof Dan Ncayiyana, Dr Edwin Hertzog and others, contributed significantly to public discourse on end‑of‑life options in South Africa. Even as he advocated for legal reform, he consistently emphasised the essential role of strong, accessible palliative care services. A steadfast presence and mentor Those who worked alongside him describe Prof van Niekerk as thoughtful, principled, and quietly resolute. For the palliative care community, he was a mentor, a guide, and a steadying presence. His belief in the importance of hospice and palliative care never wavered, and he continued to speak publicly, teach, and advocate well into the final year of his life. His legacy in palliative care Prof van Niekerk leaves behind a legacy that is both structural and deeply human: He helped build the organisational backbone of palliative care in South Africa. He ensured that hospice and palliative care were recognised as essential components of dignified health care. He brought ethical clarity and academic authority to a field that relies on compassion, integrity, and respect for patient dignity. His influence will continue to shape the work of the APCC and the broader palliative care community for years to come. With gratitude We honour Emeritus Professor JP van Niekerk with deep respect and gratitude. His leadership, advocacy, and unwavering commitment to patient dignity have left an enduring mark on palliative care in South Africa. We extend our condolences to his wife Annette, their children, and all who were touched by his life and work.