Josh Farrelly funeral: Mourners gather at Sunshine Beach to farewell Cooroy ‘free spirit’

Mourners have gathered to farewell popular Sunshine Coast man Josh Farrelly, remembering his magnetic personality and passion for life in a heartfelt service.

Mourners were asked not to harbour any guilt or blame as they gathered to celebrate the life of popular Sunshine Coast man Josh Farrelly.

Heartbroken family and friends gathered at Gregson and Weight Noosaville and Sunshine Beach Surf Life Saving Club on Tuesday afternoon for the 27-year-old’s funeral.

Mr Farrelly, of Cooroy, died suddenly on November 24 at Mount Tinbeerwah sparking an outpouring of tributes and renewed efforts from friends to try and stem the tide of young men taking their own lives.

Master of ceremonies Jay Flood told the many mourners gathered and watching from afar via livestream that the service was not about trying to move on “just trying to move forward”.

“This is something that happened, it wasn’t even a dark thing, it was a decision that was made quickly but we’re here to celebrate a life that was well-lived,” Mr Flood said.

Mr Flood described Mr Farrelly as a “legend of a son, a legend of their (Farrelly) family and a top bloke”.

Mr Farrelly’s grieving family last week explained how there had been no warning signs before his death.

His brother James, who this week became a father for the first time, made a touching reading for his brother.

“I don’t think any words can capture his spirit,” he started.

“We all knew who he was and that’s all that matters.”

Josh Farrelly with his mum, Jo.

A surfboard stood in the chapel, one of Mr Farrelly’s true passions, while his casket was adorned with a stunning marine display.

His dad, Simon, also read a passage out for his son which ended with an emotional “I love you Josh”.

One of Mr Farrelly’s former schoolmates Chris bravely recalled the impact the popular young man had on his own life.

“His love for activities is what made him magnetic,” he said.

“He could effortlessly turn a stranger into a mate.”

Mr Farrelly’s ‘gramps’ delivered the eulogy on behalf of his mother, Jo.

In it Mrs Farrelly recalled her son’s entry into the world “like a little wrecking ball”.

“You lived on what we call Josh time, you always have and always will,” she said.

Josh Farrelly with his dad, Simon, and mum Jo.

She spoke of how he discovered his love of bodybuilding and landscaping and said they would miss him “every second of every day”.

“You have been my teacher on so many occasions, you teach me to be a better person all the time Josh,” Mrs Farrelly’s eulogy read.

“There are not enough words to fully express all the amazing qualities you have.”

Mr Farrelly’s girlfriend, Jess Rix, spoke of the plans they had made for their future with dreams of a family shared.

“I’m glad I soaked up every moment with you that I had, I’ll hold onto the memories forever,” she said.

Mr Farrelly’s friend Chris also urged people to learn from the tragedy.

“I was lucky enough to share a short chapter of my life with him,” he said.

Josh Farrelly, left, with his father, Simon, brother James and mum Jo. The Farrelly family is mourning the sudden death of Josh, 27, who died on Wednesday afternoon.

“Please don’t be afraid to talk, it ain’t weak to speak.”

His sentiments were echoed by Mr Flood, who urged people to be true to Mr Farrelly’s memory and if anyone was struggling “just put up your hand”.

Mr Farrelly’s coffin was to be taken to Sunshine Beach for one last look at his beloved ocean and a butterfly and flower release on Tuesday evening.

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