IF Tony Burrowes had a say in how his funeral yesterday should have been arranged, he would, according to his boyhood friend Michael Fraser, have wanted the congregation to “have a good time and send him the bill”.

Fraser’s remembrance of the former Wray and Nephew brand manager and owner of the in-bond liquor store at the Norman Manley International Airport, fitted the general description of Burrowes as a philanthropist and friend to everyone he met.

It, therefore, was not surprising that the Stella Maris Roman Catholic Church in Kingston was overflowing yesterday with friends who went there to give thanks for Burrowes’ life.

Burrowes passed away last week after a lengthy illness. He was a former national hockey player and, through sponsorship by corporate giant Wray and Nephew, made significant contributions to the development of sports in Jamaica.

Fraser, who reminisced about old times he shared with Burrowes at their alma mater, Jamaica College, said he lived life to the fullest and was one who would give selflessly to those who needed it.

Monsignor Richard Albert, who officiated at the service, said Burrowes was a personal friend who had made this country richer for having him as a son.

He described Burrowes as a great father who was dedicated to his children and said that he would have lived on and on if he had his way. However, he was ready to meet his maker.

“Tony was ready. Most people do not want to go, but Tony was ready,” said Albert, who told the congregation that he had visited Burrowes on his death bed.

Musical tributes were given in the form of a solo rendition of Danny Boy by Darcy Tulloch-Williams, and trumpeter Dwight Richards who performed My Way.

Veteran broadcaster and deacon in the Anglican church, Easton Lee, assisted in the rites of aspersion and incensation of the casket, as well as the ceremony of the paschal candle, which signifies the transition to another life.

On Monday, Judith Douglas, general manager of Edwin Charley, who worked closely with Burrowes for many years, told the Observer that Burrowes was a friend to everyone. “He was never rough, he had a great respect for all. Tony never harboured grudges and looked for and found the good in everyone,” Douglas said.

She also said Burrowes as an optimist who tried to solve people’s problems.

Burrowes was interred in the Dovecot Memorial Park.