Cambridge farewell for Stephen Hawking

The funeral service for Professor Stephen Hawking included traditional religious themes when family and friends gathered yesterday at a church near the Cambridge University college that was his academic home for more than 50 years.

Renowned British physicist Professor Hawking died peacefully at his Cambridge home on March 14 at the age of 76.

The cosmologist was diagnosed with motor neurone disease while in his 20s.

Yesterday's private funeral service at the University Church of St Mary the Great was attended by family, invited friends and colleagues.

In a statement, his children Lucy, Robert and Tim said: "On behalf of our whole family we want to express our huge gratitude to all the wonderful tributes to our father and to those who have sent us messages of condolence.

"Our father lived and worked in Cambridge for over 50 years.

"He was an integral and highly recognisable part of the university and the city.

"For this reason, we have decided to hold his funeral in the city that he loved so much and which loved him.

"Our father's life and work meant many things to many people, both religious and non-religious.

The coffin of Professor Stephen Hawking arrives at University Church of St Mary the Great as mourners gather to pay their respects, in Cambridge, England. Photo / AP

"So, the service will be both inclusive and traditional, reflecting the breadth and diversity of his life."

The church, which can seat up to 1200 people, is near to Gonville and Caius College, where Hawking was a fellow for 52 years.

His coffin was carried by six porters from the college, all in traditional uniform including bowler hats. Many porters provided support when he visited for events.

Hawking's ashes will be interred close to the remains of Sir Isaac Newton in Westminster Abbey on June 15.