By Patch Editor Jim Leggate
James Gandolfini was best known for his portrayal of mob boss Tony Soprano, but his family, friends and coworkers remembered him as a talented actor and loving father during a funeral service at The Cathedral Church of Saint John the Divine Thursday morning.
"My husband was an honest, kind and loving man," his wife,Deborah Lin said, according to the Daily News. "He cared more about others than himself."
Gandolfini died after suffering a heart attack in Italy last week. He was 51.
Many of his fellow actors from "The Sopranos" also attended the funeral. CBS reported Edie Falco, Joe Pantoliano, Dominic Chianese, Steve Schirripa, Aida Turturro, Vincent Curatola and Michael Imperioli were all there. Other celebrities, and Gov. Chris Christie, also attended the service.
Susan Anton, who also appeared on "The Sopranos," remembered Gandolfini as a hard worker who "studied his roles and did his homework."
The service also drew hundreds of fans who could not attend the private wake in Park Ridge Wednesday. The cathedral had 1,500 seats set up for the service.
"I was a big fan of his," 16-year-old fan Francis Connolly told the Star-Ledger. "It was a little before my time but I really liked it."
Get more local news delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up for free Patch newsletters and alerts.
