Over a thousand plus people were at the Lismore Showgrounds this morning for Paul O'Neill's funeral. It was a sign of the love, friendship and respect that Paul O'Neill commanded in our community, a sign of how many lives he touched in his 64 years.

Paul's funeral paid tribute to a husband, a father, a brother, a mentor, a leader and a special friend as the crowd farewelled someone who had given so much to the community and the city of Lismore.

Speakers told stories about a genuine, likeable larrikin who didn't mind an adventure, a straight-up bloke who told the truth, a 'no bullshit' type of man, one who had a sense of humour and was famous for his one-liners.

A boss who wanted to create a happy workplace for his 50 staff because they were like family, a racer who won National and NSW Speedway titles that helped put Lismore on the map.

Paul O'Neill was a man who never did anything half-hearted, he was fully committed to anything he put his mind to and didn't mind working seven days a week to make it happen. Lismore Nissan won the prestigious Elite Award for 11 consecutive years. When I chatted to Paul about this achievement, he was quick to turn the limelight away from himself and onto his staff who "do the hard work". He was also a humble man.

Most importantly, Paul O'Neill was a family man who loved his wife, Wendy, and his two children, Paul Jr and Victoria, above all else.

All three spoke at Paul's funeral, sharing thoughts about a husband and father in the most trying of circumstances.

Paul Jr spoke about how his dad not only followed his passion for footy with the Marist Brothers Rams but was there at every game. Wendy was not only Paul's wife but best friend and business partner. She said she will miss their special time each morning and said joking through tears "yes, Paul I will be back at work soon just like you want me to be." Victoria spoke about how Paul supported her beauty business (Victoria's Beauty Lismore) and had a way of making everyone feel special, "His warm smile, genuine concern touched the lives of many. He was always there to offer support and encouragement and bring out the best in people."

Paul O'Neill's funeral began with a cover of The Beatles 'Let It Be', as his life was displayed on the big screen Tina Turner's '(Simply) The Best' played and at the end when Paul O'Neill made his way around the Lismore Speedway track one final time, Jimmy Barnes 'Working Class Man' played as people lined and applauded as Paul was driven through the gates.

Paul Jr mentioned one of Paul Sr's one-liners, "They just don't make them like they used to". Indeed, they do not and there will only be one Paul O'Neill.

R.I.P. Paul.