A beloved radio presenter has been remembered for his kindness and artistry in a memorial service that paid tribute to his whimsical nature.
Best known for presenting the Afternoons show on ABC Radio Sydney for more than 20 years, James Valentine died in April after a two-year battle with cancer.
The 64-year-old chose to end his life using voluntary assisted dying after he was diagnosed with oesophageal cancer in March 2024.
A public memorial held at Sydney's Town Hall in his honour on Friday paid tribute to his broadcasting and music career as hundreds lined up around the block.
Unlike typically sombre funerals, the upbeat and entertaining service was punctuated by loud cheers and laughs from the audience.
Comedian HG Nelson, who contributed to a segment on Valentine’s radio show, opened proceedings with a rousing comedic routine that had the crowd in stitches.
“I'd walk in with a bunch of articles written from the newspapers, and the magic in his mind and tonsils would turn it into compelling radio,” he said.
“He could fill 30 minutes with absolutely nothing, and on occasions did so ... it's a rare skill.”
Valentine's friend and confidant Governor-General Sam Mostyn recounted fond memories and conversations over the years in a touching tribute.
"On radio, screen, and stage, James has reminded us that conversation and community matters, and kindness belongs at the heart of public life," she told the congregation.
Among the mourners were ABC identities including former managing director David Anderson, actor Richard Roxburgh, The Chaser’s Chris Taylor, radio hosts Hamish McDonald and science broadcaster Norman Swan.
ABC managing director Hugh Marks began his speech declaring it was "so lovely to be in a room full of love".
"I wish I was in more rooms of love all the time," he continued to the audience's laughter.
"James was a master of the art that was his chosen craft, an exemplar of the work he chose to pursue built around a genuine relationship he built with his audience."
Valentine’s daughter Ruby said his care for others shaped her own life views.
“He led the way ... showing me how to live with compassion, empathy for others and kindness at the forefront," she told the crowd.
"How to find the whimsy and the beauty in the every day ... a life focused on joy is the best way forward."
Outside of the studio, Valentine was a celebrated saxophonist who toured with The Models and recorded with well-known acts such as Kate Ceberano and Wendy Matthews.
He took leave after his diagnosis before making a brave return to the airwaves in 2025.
After later scans revealed further tumours, the long-time radio host made a final retirement in February.
Among those lining up to attend the service, long-time listener Erin said the vast turnout spoke to Valentine’s impact.
"It’s the positivity and warmth he brought, that’s what prompts this … he felt like a part of our lives,” she told AAP.
The memorial also attracted an odd assortment of high-profile figures, from federal MPs Tanya Plibersek and Allegra Spender to INXS guitarist and saxophonist Kirk Pengilly.
Others in the crowd included celebrity chef Matt Moran, comedian Mark Humphries and TV hosts Gretel Killeen and Julia Morris.
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