Born on 23 October 1947, Stride - a lock/flanker from Eastern Province who played for the erstwhile SARU team in 1978 - is regarded as one of the toughest forwards of his generation, and it’s said that he could have played for the Springboks against the touring British & Irish Lions in 1974 if it wasn’t for the apartheid legislation of the time.

Described often as a "humble giant", Stride came through the rugby ranks in Nelson Mandela Bay, where he played for the Wallabies and PE Harlequins clubs, as well as provincially for EP before being selected to wear the green and gold of SARU.

“As a no-nonsense forward who loved getting stuck in, Sammy was at the heart of the engine room of all the teams he represented,” said Mr Alexander.

“He meant a great deal to a lot of people in his community in the northern areas of Gqeberha, but also wider in the province, and his love for the game and his friends meant he was seen as a beacon in his community.

“As a mentor and friend to many, Sammy was more than just a former rugby player, and that is how we should remember him, along with his achievements on the rugby field.

“He proudly represented his clubs, province and South Africa at a time when higher recognition was not an option, and we would like to honour and recognize his talent and dedication to the game we hold dear.

“But Sammy will probably be best remembered as a humble and kind-hearted giant of a man who leaves behind a legacy that will live on for generations to come. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and loved ones, friends and former teammates in this time of sadness – may you find solace in the memories of a true legend who always gave everything he had to those he loved.”

Mr Stride’s funeral service is at the UCC in Chatty, Bethelsdorp on Saturday, 8 November from 13h00.