An overflowing Ss Peter and Pauls Catholic Church gathered for the emotional send-off of Mrs Delaney, who died after a 25-year battle with breast cancer. Her funeral was followed by the release of balloons in Coronation Park.

Born in Port Kembla on June 13, 1946, she was the eldest of three girls for Edna and Arthur Bishop. She married Bill Delaney in 1964, having four children, Paul, Louella, Nerina and Venessa; 16 grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren, all of whom she was extremely proud of.

She started her hairdressing career, which lasted for 54 years, in Sydney, where she won several awards and was always willing to lend support and assist others she worked with.

She worked at Mecca Salon, in Kiama, for 40 years and was committed and passionate about her clients and their needs. A natural leader, she inspired everyone she worked with to be their best.

Nerrelle loved her family, friends and hairdressing and earned the respect of the community, reflected by the attendance at her funeral.

She was sick with cancer for 25 years but showed her strength and determination throughout, continuing to work while undergoing chemotherapy and radiotherapy.

Nerrelle was involved in many cancer support groups, including being the Kiama representative of the Illawarra Breast Cancer Support Group, organising workshops, information days and seminars. Often she was sicker than the people she was supporting, but that didn't concern Nerrelle.

She has left a wonderful legacy to the town and will be long remembered.