The Royal Bermuda Regiment family yesterday united to pay their respects to Colour Sergeant Keith Whorms, who died suddenly last week.

Sergeant Whorms, diplomatic driver for the Premier and earlier for the Governor, was 53.

His family was joined by soldiers and civilians at a packed service at the Anglican Cathedral in Hamilton for a funeral service with full military honours.

Sergeant Whorms’ body was taken to the cathedral on an RBR gun carriage and his flag-draped coffin was carried to and from the church by senior Non-Commisioned Officers.

RBR commanding officer Lieutenant-Colonel David Curley told mourners that Sergeant Whorms received a commendation for outstanding service from Mary Ellen Koenig, the US Consul General for service to an American diplomat only days before he died.

Colonel Curley said: “Keith Anthony Whorms was a professional with a disarming personality and he was a very good soldier.”

Jamaican-born Sergeant Whorms joined the RBR in 1993, rising rapidly through the ranks before a break in service. He re-enlisted in 2005 and was promoted to Colour Sergeant a year later.

Colonel Curley said: “Although Colour Sergeant Whorms had a distinguished career, it was not his career which set him apart – it was the man himself.

“He treated everyone the same, from the youngest to the oldest, from the private soldier to indeed the Commanding Officer. He treated us all with respect and dignity.”

And he added: “On behalf of the men and women of the Royal Bermuda Regiment to the family of Colour Sergeant Whorms and those who loved him, I extend our deepest sympathy.”

Sergeant Whorms’ young son Kymaree Pitt paid his own touching tribute to his father.

He told the congregation that his father’s compassion was brought home to him when they were out fishing and he told him to throw back a small fish to give it a chance of life.

Kymaree said: “I thought that was so kind of him. He was always looking out for other people and things.”

And he added: “I’m really sad you left me at such a young age – I wanted to spend more time with you. I will always remember you and the good times we had.”

Acting Governor Ginny Ferson said the entire Government House staff had been stunned by the news of Sergeant Whorms’ sudden death.

She said: “He was a guy who made a lot of impact on a lot of people – you could always rely on Keith for a funny comment or insightful remark. He always had a twinkle in his eye.”

Mrs Ferson added: “I saw a man who was kind, funny, caring, thoughtful, insightful and philosophical.”

Mrs Ferson also read out a message from former Governor George Fergusson, who left the post in the summer.

Mr Fergusson wrote: “I, along with my wife and family, were shocked and really sad at the news of Keith’s completely unexpected death. He had become a family friend – you get to know someone quite well when you’re sharing a car with them for several hours a week.”

Senator Jeff Baron, the Minister of National Security, told mourners: “Today we gather to remember a man who is dear to all of us. Today we gather to give thanks for his life.

“Sergeant Keith Whorms was a member of the Cabinet Office family, as I was for a time – he made such an impact on the lives of everyone he encountered.”

Mr Baron read out a message from Michael Dunkley, the Premier, which said: “As Premier, I can say he performed his duties with unparalleled professionalism and pride. Since getting the news of his untimely passing last week, we have been in a state of disbelief and shock.”

And Mr Dunkley praised Sergeant Whorms “loyal service, his integrity as a person and his quiet, but strong, demeanour”.