Friends and family gathered yesterday to remember the life and accomplishments of Paul Pope.

The funeral service was held at Gower Street United Church, and featured songs by Amelia Curran, Jody Richardson, and Sean Panting among others.

Pope died unexpectedly last week after a very brief illness, shaking the film and TV industry here and beyond.

Debbie McGee, Pope’s sister-in-law, also spoke during Tuesday’s service.

Instead of seeing it as a loss, she says the funeral marked the beginning of a new relationship with Paul Pope, which may well take longer for some than others, but noted everyone is starting at the same time.

An informal campaign has already begun to name the new Film and Media Production Centre after Pope.