Community members, councillors and politicians from Brewarrina and beyond have paid tribute after the shire's longest-serving councillor died last week.

Angelo Pippos joined the council in 1974 as a 25-year-old and served for 48 years before passing last Friday.

“Angelo was not only a valued member of our Council, but also a true friend and a guiding light for our community,” Brewarrina Shire mayor Tommy Stanton said

“His tireless dedication to improving the lives of our residents and his passion for our Shire will never be forgotten. On behalf of the entire Council, I extend my deepest sympathies to his beloved wife, Margie, and the entire Pippos family during this heartbreaking time.”

The son of Greek immigrant George Pippos from the Island of Ithaka, Angelo was working in his family's Cafe De Luxe when he was elected.

He took over the cafe from his parents as a young man before the historic venue, founded by his father in 1926, was destroyed in an electrical fire in 2014.

Mr Pippos served Brewarrina Shire as a councillor for almost 50 years. IMAGE: Brewarrina Shire Council

Mr Pippos and wife Margaret had plans to leave town for Toowoomba after the disaster, but decided to stay following an outburst of community support.

"He was the one who taught me that change was a good thing, that I could make my own choices," said Cheryl William online, originally from Brewarrina.

"[He] watched us grow up, looking out for us as teenagers, joking with everyone and helping anyone in need. Was always good to see him and Margaret whenever I went home, he would always say 'look, here she is, how many kids do you have now?'"

Brewarrina Shire General Manager David Kirby said Mr Pippos had "integrity and vision."

"His contributions to not only Brewarrina, but to towns right across outback NSW ensures he leaves a lasting legacy,” Mr Kirby said.

“He was a true advocate for the community and always put the needs of others first. Our thoughts and prayers are with Margie and the Pippos family as they navigate this immense loss.”

Barwon MP Roy Butler also paid tribute online.

"What a loss for Brewarrina Shire Council and the community. I will make sure his services to Brewarrina are recognised. Sincere condolences to the family, and the community," Mr Butler said.