A YOUNG man who lived at a million miles per hour was said to have packed more living into his 27-years than most people would in 50.
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Close to 400 people showed to remember Wodonga's James “Jimmy” Shaw at The Hume Chapel in Albury on Tuesday.
He touched many in the community through his love for soccer, golf, poker, pool and fishing.
James died after suffering a severe asthma attack on November 3, but even in death showed compassion by donating his organs which went to five recipients.
His father, Dave, said a part of him would live on and hopefully give life to others.
Mr Shaw said he taught his son to play pool and pretty soon he was playing under the Albury Wodonga Eight Ball Association.
“He talked the talk, walked the walk and was quick to offer anybody a game for $20, $50 or even 100 bucks,” Mr Shaw said.
“I have lost my best mate.
“Rack ‘em up – until we meet again.”
James graduated with his VCE from Wodonga Senior Secondary College and played soccer for the Twin City Wanderers.
His sister, Chantelle, spoke of his fearlessness and how there was never a dull moment when he was around.
“James was a brother in the truest sense of the word, but he was so much more than that,” she said.
“He was known for his courage and his generosity.
“During soccer games James would put his head in places where people would be afraid to put their feet – this resulted in multiple trips to the emergency room.”
The Gambler by Kenny Rodgers played as his personality shone through in photos making his loved ones laugh.
Birallee Eight Ball teammate Colin English finally admitted to James he was the best and recalled how he had been hustled by him during a pool game at the pub.
James’ mother Sue stood beside his partner Jodi Kelly who thanked him for treating her children as if they were his own.
The children's drawing were driven away with the coffin and blue balloons were released as his friends and family said goodbye.