Yankees legend Yogi Berra remembered at funeral by family, sports royalty

MONTCLAIR, N.J. (WABC) -- On a day filled with stories from a lifetime in baseball, New York Yankees legend Yogi Berra was remembered Tuesday morning by family and friends at a private funeral in New Jersey as more than one of the game's greats.

Services were held at the Church of the Immaculate Conception in Montclair, where Berra and his wife raised their family.

The Hall-of-Famer, known for his quirky sayings, died a week ago at the age of 90. He was cremated, and his remains were placed by the altar with a gold catcher's mitt on top and the American flag displayed.

The beloved catcher was also recalled as a man who served his country courageously, delighted in the joys of family and brought laughter with his words wherever he went.

Archbishop Timothy Cardinal Dolan presided over the service and said Berra attended Mass every Sunday in Montclair, "same pew, same time."

"Last week, I had the honor of hosting another great man," Dolan said, drawing parallels between Berra and Pope Francis. Dolan said everyone is on the eternal journey back to God. "And there's no fork in the road in that journey. And that life ain't ever over."

Former Yankees manager Joe Torre delivered a eulogy, calling Berra the team's "good-luck charm" before an overflow church crowd. Also at the service were ex-Yankees Derek Jeter, Bernie Williams and Jorge Posada and club president Randy Levine.

Dolan ended his homily, paying tribute to the man and blending two of his most celebrated remarks.

"There's no fork in the road to eternal life," he said. "In that respect, it ain't over."

New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie signed an executive order honoring Berra. The order called for state government buildings to fly flags at half-staff on Tuesday in recognition of his life and in mourning of the Montclair resident.

Christie said the World War II veteran, baseball player and coach was a national treasure.

(Some information from the Associated Press and YES Network/Yogi Berra Museum & Learning Center.)