Chris Minn’s father John farewelled at Sydney funeral

A teacher, a public speaker, a mad Labor supporter and a man with a wicked sense of humour — this is how John Minns, father of NSW Premier Chris Minns, was warmly remembered at his funeral on Friday.

Chris Minns announced his father’s death with this social post: “This afternoon we lost our dad, John Minns. To the end, he was surrounded by love and family, with his wife and children by his side. We thank the NSW paramedics and all the nurses and doctors at St George Hospital, who gave our dad great care this week. We have also been very moved by all the messages of support over the last few days.”

A teacher, a public speaker, a mad Labor supporter and a man with a wicked sense of humour.

These are just some ways John Minns, father of NSW premier Chris Minns, was remembered at a moving funeral on Friday.

The 72-year-old died last week due to a sudden heart attack. He was rushed to St George Hospital but could not be revived.

The who’s who of NSW politics and media attended his funeral at St Declan’s Catholic Church, Penshurst, including 2GB talk show host Ben Fordham, former Liberal premier Dominic Perrottet and former Labor premier Morris Iemma.

Other attendees included Ministers Steve Kamper, Jo Haylen, Penny Sharpe, Rose Jackson, Prue Carr, Jihad Dib and the Attorney General.

In a heartwarming eulogy, his daughter Sarah Minns remembered her father as an avid reader and passionate teacher.

Premier Chris Minns with his youngest son George. Picture: Richard Dobson

NSW Governor Margaret Beazley. Picture: Richard Dobson

Mr Minns was a public school teacher for more than 45 years and was credited with inspiring many students to take on public speaking.

In her speech, Ms Minns remembered her father’s golden rules of public speaking.

Chris Minns comforting a guest at his father’s funeral. Picture: Richard Dobson

“Never end your speech with the words thank you. Talk slowly. A short speech is a good thing.”

She then went on to break one rule.

Danny Abdallah, who lost three of his children in the Oatlands crash, embraces Chris Minns. Picture: Richard Dobson

Ben Fordham. Picture: Richard Dobson

Former NSW Premier Morris Iemma with Mr Minns. Picture: Richard Dobson

“Dad, I can see you checking your beloved Apple watch to see how long I have taken, and I know I should follow your rules, but I am just going to break one more.

“For your endless love, for your laughter, for your advice, for building your beautiful family with mum … thank you.”

MP Chris Bowen. Picture: Richard Dobson

John Minns died from a heart attack on May 1, 2024. Picture: X

NSW Premier Chris Minns presented a short reading from the Bible.

“The time for my departure has come. I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. From now on there is reserve for me the crown of righteousness,” said Mr Minns.

Premier Chris Minns with his late father John. Picture: Supplied

The visibly upset NSW Premier could be seen embracing his children and family following the ceremony.

In his inaugural speech to parliament, Chris Minns spoke of his love for his father, who he said introduced him to the “Labor tribe”.

“I also thank my mum and dad. I wish every kid could have the upbringing that I, my sister, Sarah, and brother, Jimmy, had — we lived in a family that sat, ate and talked together every night around the dinner table.

“They would all be encouraged to pursue their dreams in a home of unconditional love, help and support—and everyone would be forced to support the Labor Party.”
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