Friends and family said farewell to popular athlete and coach Devrae Noel-Simmons, who passed away last week at the age of 45.

Known in part for his large build and iconic mohawk, Mr Noel-Simmons was a popular bodybuilder, rugby player and coach. He also tried his hand at politics, running for the United Bermuda Party in a by-election, making him the last person to appear on a ballot under that party’s banner.

Speaking at the funeral on Friday, former Opposition leader Kim Swan noted Mr Noel-Simmons’s contributions to the community, both through sports and politics.

“Many can attest that Devrae made a positive impact during his life,” Mr Swan said. “From my vantage point Devrae wanted to make a positive contribution in our beloved Bermuda, be a positive role model for his son Dante, be a good provider for Susie and make Relda proud.

“Devrae was a very intelligent man who had the courage and humility to face his difficulties head on, he wasn’t perfect and made mistakes — but then again who among us is perfect and hasn’t made a mistake?”

Mr Swan described Mr Noel-Simmons as a loyal friend and family man who stood up for what he felt was right.

“Let us not be in a hurry to prejudge people based on their hair styles or past indiscretion when they have taken ownership for them and are demonstrating a commitment to make positive their future contributions,” Mr Swan said.

“In my opinion, when Devrae’s came to the forefront in Bermuda politics, his candidacy represented an opportunity for our marginalised young people to see that it possible for a person to ‘rise above adversity’, as Devrae was doing, to make a life for himself with Susie, Dante and to make his mother proud of her beloved son.”