William Gopallawa

When Ceylon became the Republic of Sri Lanka on 2 March 1972, William Gopallawa (17 September 1896 – 31 January 1981) became the first President. He stepped down from office in February 1978. Gopallawa served as the last Governor-General of Ceylon. Gopallawa married Seelawathie Rambukwella Gopallawa; they had 5 children. One died early on while he was still working in Matale.