London Welsh coach Martin Jones says former Exiles prop Pierre Durant, who died last week aged 31, was a "total professional" and "jolly".
The South African suffered a heart attack in his home country on Friday, February 15.
The former Welsh powerhouse, pictured, arrived Old Deer Park in summer 2006 and went on to make 12 appearances for the club before family commitments forced him to leave.
Jones said: "I signed him for the club as he had a lot to offer.
"He was an integral part of our set-up in 2006-07.
"He was a jolly person and a great team member.
"Not only that but he was totally professional and a great example to the younger players in our squad.
"We would like to extend our gratitude for all he did during his time at the club."
Durant also played for London Irish, Saracens, Free State Cheetahs and Catania, and represented South Africa at U21 level.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article