The late Peter Underwood will be remembered for truly taking the government to the people.

Sitting at his funeral at the Hotel Grand Chancellor in Hobart on Monday, it was obvious that he was held with great affection by all who knew him.

While it is a strange thing to attend the funeral of someone you've never met, a lot can be learned.

As the who's who of Tasmanian law and politics flocked into the state funeral - where there were more than 1000 mourners, some even with police escort - the private life of a public figure was on show.

Stressed-looking protocol staff clung to clipboards and ushered in guests who ranged from ex- premiers and judges to the Governor-General Sir Peter Cosgrove.

The Tasmanian Symphony Orchestra returned from a winter break to perform, recognising Mr Underwood's time as director.

The atmosphere was one of sadness for the loss of a man who still had much to give.

Mr Underwood's coffin was strewn with Tasmanian botanics, some hand picked from the grounds of Government House.

Stories were told of a young English migrant arriving in Tasmania in 1950 and describing his new surroundings as "just magic".

His friend of 60 years, William Cox, said Mr Underwood thrived at the University of Tasmania, and described him as Tasmania's answer to movie star Troy Donahue.

The two later served together on the bench of the Supreme Court and both went on to be governors.

Mr Underwood's friend Janet Holmes a Court, one of the richest women in Australia, said Mr Underwood had all the qualities needed in a governor: intellect, integrity, passion, grace, charm, moral courage, a sense of humour and an ability to relate to people from all walks of life.

In her eulogy, Frances Underwood described her husband as an "intensely private and humble person".

Mrs Underwood said he relished every minute of being governor and was deeply honoured to hold the position.

Step-daughter Sarah Heathcote told the packed funeral how her step-father was pulled over for speeding near Windmill Hill after a morning swim while on the court circuit.

Mr Underwood was asked what he was doing in Launceston with a Hobart address, to which he informed the policeman he was in town for work.

When pressed what his work in fact was, Mr Underwood said he was a public servant and, despite his identity eventually being revealed, he insisted on being issued an infringement ticket.

The idea of the governor as a public servant couldn't be more truthful.

The office of the governor costs more than $3 million to run, and is mostly a ceremonial role, but knowledge of the constitution is essential.

Keeping up appearances is also high up on the position description.

Mr and Mrs Underwood last year attended 200 events, delivered 150 speeches between them and hosted 60 receptions.

The doors of Government House were opened up to 15,000 visitors earlier this year, and the pair stood at the door to greet all.

Despite the republican movement gaining momentum around the country, Mr Underwood proved that the position of the Queen's representative in the state can be held in high esteem.

The position has shifted from one dealt out as a reward to knights of the British Empire, to eminent Australians of more careful consideration.

Premier Will Hodgman said earlier this week the government would hold off on choosing a replacement while the state mourns the loss of Mr Underwood.

Perhaps an appropriate time to reflect on the qualities we'd like to see in our next head of state.