Mr Pyne was a long-serving independent councillor, served as mayor from 1995 to 1999, and was an active member of the community for many years.

Cessnock mayor Bob Pynsent paid tribute to Mr Pyne, saying he was “an outstanding individual and community-minded man who will be missed by many”.

Mr Pyne’s funeral was held at St John’s Anglican Church, Cessnock on Monday.

He is survived by his wife Daphne, three children, four grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. 

Read more about Mr Pyne’s life and service to the community in next week’s Advertiser.