The legendary coach passed away on Monday, aged 87, after a long battle with illness.

Furner is best remembered for his coaching feats at the highest level, but he also made a big impact in the Riverina after time at a number of clubs.

Furner was captain-coach of Junee in 1964, winning the prestigious Maher Cup and leading the Diesels to their first Group Nine premiership.

He earlier had returned to NSW to take up the job as captain-coach of Tumbarumba in 1960. He led the Greens to a Group 20 premiership in his first season, among two grand final appearances.

Furner also held coaching consultancy role at Narrandera in 1999 and Yanco-Wamoon in 2005.

NRL chief executive Todd Greenberg paid tribute to Furner's contribution to the game.

"Don was one of those rare gifts to the game which allowed him to excel as a player, as a coach and a fine administrator," Greenberg said.

"Very few have been able to do that in rugby league.

"Don will be missed but he will always have a place in the game as one of the founding figures of the Raiders, along with other significant achievements.

"On behalf of the game I offer my sincerest condolences to Don's family and friends, particularly his sons David and Don who have also made significant contributions to the sport."

Furner was foundation coach of Canberra Raiders in 1982 and with co-coach Wayne Bennett, steered the Raiders to their first grand final appearance in 1987.

He was appointed Australian coach in 1986 and led the Kangaroos to a second successive undefeated tour through Great Britain and France. In 1988, he coached Australia to victory in the World Cup final against New Zealand.

Furner's record in 15 Tests as Australian coach was 13 wins and two losses. He also coached Fiji at the 2000 World Cup.

Furner became Australian chairman of selectors for a decade after standing down as national coach.

As a player, Furner also played six matches for Queensland and toured with the Kangaroos in 1956-57, playing the second Ashes Test against Great Britain.

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