Albert Reynolds was a peacemaker and a central figure to bringing an end to violence in Northern Ireland.
The words of Father Brian Darcy at the funeral mass for the former Taoiseach this afternoon.
Mr Reynolds – who was 81 – died last Thursday.
As the Reynolds family arrived at the Sacred Heart Church, among those attending the funeral were President Michael D Higgins, Taoiseach enda Kenny and former Taoisigh Liam Cosgrave, Bertie Ahern, John Bruton and Brian Cowen.
Former British Prime Minister John Major is attending, saying where else would he be on this day.
Northern Ireland's Deputy First Minister Martin McGuinness and Northern Secretary Teresa Villiers were present too, alongside fashion designer Louise Kennedy and racehorse owner JP McManus.
The former Taoiseach's grandchildren brought up symbols to reflect his life – among them the award of the freedom of Longford, a deck of cards, a tin of dog food to represent the family business, a racing card and his copy of the Downing Street Declaration.
Mr Reynolds will shortly travel to his final resting place – Shanganagh Cemetery in South Dublin.
