Braidy North-Flanagan was just 28 years old when the ute he was driving collided with a truck on the Sturt Highway, east of Wagga, early on Saturday morning.

The man's loved ones have been left "heartbroken and devastated" as they grieve the shocking news, but have held on the positive memories they shared with Braidy.

His younger brother Kyle North-Flanagan said he would forever cherish their time together.

"He had the biggest, cheekiest grin that everyone will always remember," he said.

"He was bright, outgoing, he'll be missed by so many people."

More than just a brother, Kyle said he'd learned a lot from his best friend.

"He was a gun fisherman. He taught me how to fish, we'd go out and fish a lot," he said.

"Braidy was only just starting to get back on track too after his house burned to the ground last year, we were about to start building it together for him in the coming months.

"Now I'll have to do it on my own."

But Braidy's brightest quality was his selflessness, according to Kyle.

"He always looked after other people before considering himself," he said.

Braidy's partner of more than five years, Scarlett Campbell, said his generosity was both his best, but sometimes worst, quality.

"He was so, so giving that it almost wasn't good for him," she said.

"He was the most loyal man, if you were his friend or family or anyone close to Braidy, he'd do absolutely anything for you, no matter what or when."

Miss Campbell said his smile was contagious.

"Anyone he came into contact with, he'd put a smile on their face too," she said.

"There are just no words good enough to describe him.

"I don't think anyone else could grasp just how beautiful he was, he had a heart of gold."

Police are investigating the circumstances surrounding the crash and a report is being prepared for the coroner.

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