Hundreds of mourners - including the greats of golf - filled the First Baptist Church of Orlando yesterday for a memorial service to remember US Open champion Payne Stewart, who died on Monday when his Learjet crashed in South Dakota.

The altar area was crammed with scores of sprays of multicolored flowers and a gilt-framed family photo of Stewart, near which friends fondly remembered the man they lost.

Asked about the memory of Stewart in his mind, Greg Norman said: "It's not about golf. I'll always have the memories of Payne visiting me in Australia, relaxing by the pool with a glass of wine. He's always been a terrific friend." Paul Azinger jokingly donned a tam-o-shanter and rolled up his trousers imitating Stewart's singular sartorial style.

Stewart, 42, won three Majors (one USPGA and two US Opens) and was featured on two winning American Ryder Cup teams.

Dermot Gilleece adds: A bright afternoon sun slipped behind gathering clouds as Bernhard Langer addressed his assembled, tournament colleagues around the 18th green at Montecastillo last evening. At the end of play, they were remembering Payne Stewart who was known personally to many of them.

As spectators also stood in silent tribute, Langer said: "We are gathering here in remembrance of the five casualties of last Monday's air crash, one of them being our colleague and dear friend, Payne Stewart.

"Payne was one of the most liked and respected players who has ever played the game. He treated everyone as very special. Whether caddie, player, official, friend or stranger, he took time and showed interest in all of us.

"We all have been blessed by knowing and spending time with Payne. Our hearts go out to Payne's wife, Tracey and their children.

"Payne, we know you have gone to a better place, to be with your Father in Heaven, but you will be greatly missed by all of us. Please join me now in a minute of silence."

At the end of the minute's silence, there was gentle applause from spectators.