A LOVE-worn Sherrin football, a Brisbane Lions AFL scarf and a Rockhampton Panthers AFC jersey sat a-top John 'Broady' Broad's resting place beside an image of him beaming ear-to-ear as hundreds of his relatives and friends spilled out of the East Chapel at Rockhampton Crematorium yesterday.

Hundreds of hearts swelled with love, laughter and sorrow as the colourful life of the Rockhampton icon was remembered and celebrated at a 10am funeral service.

A life of adventure, achievement and service to his community.

The service heard of John's cheeky character, his endless love for his family and his mates, his countless achievements as a councillor for the Rockhampton Regional Council and of course, his passion for sport in the Rockhampton region, particularly Aussie Rules.

Loving smiles stretched across everyone's faces as John's eulogy, by brothers Tim, Stephen and Richard Broad, was presented.

There wasn't a dry eye in the chapel as former colleague and long-time friend Tom Wyatt and AFL Capricornia representative and good mate Wayne Clifford presented words of tribute and a poem respectively.

And plenty of laughs were shared as close friends reflected on their fondest memories of John.

The outpouring of emotion and large turn-out of family and friends was a true reflection of how highly John was held in the eyes of the Central Queensland community and how much he was adored by all. While Rockhampton has lost a true icon in John, he will undoubtedly live on in the hearts of everyone, especially the Broad family.

John is the beloved husband of Dot, much loved father and father-in-law to Lara and Kim and Michelle. Very much loved Papa John to Ella and Darci, loved brother and brother-in-law to David, Tim and Pat, Stephen and Judy, Richard and Michelle and uncle to their families.

All of whom passed on their thanks for all who have supported them and gave condolences following the passing of John last Wednesday.

Rest in peace Broady.