Speaking before the funeral service Gary Hetherington, chief executive of Leeds Rhinos, said in the early stage of Burrow’s rugby career the player doubted his ability because of his height.
He said: “He did prove himself big enough… he was big in heart, spirit determination and ability. An iconic sportsman.”
Burrow had a 17-year career that included winning eight Super League Grand Finals, three World Club Challenges and two Challenge Cups.
However in 2019, two years after his retirement from the sport, he was diagnosed with MND.
In less than five years following his diagnosis, he and his friend and former teammate Kevin Sinfield raised more than £15m for MND charities.
Burrow was made an MBE in the 2021 New Year Honours for his services to rugby league and the MND community, and was promoted to a CBE in the New Year Honours in 2024.
The father of three died at Pinderfields Hospital in Wakefield.
In a poignant final message, which Burrow asked to be shared after his death, he urged people not to “waste a moment” of their lives.
