A NSW man is being remembered by family and friends after being found dead 40 days after he was last seen.

A member of the public discovered a body in bushland off Wilmotts Rd at Spring Ridge about 5pm on Friday.

Keith Noel Bagnall, 51, has been described by his sister as “a man with a generous heart, a big laugh, and a love of the land”.

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On Saturday, Rosemary Bagnall informed locals in Quirindi that Keith had been found.

Keith was last heard from on Monday June 23 about 1pm.

When Keith couldn’t be contacted, he was reported missing to police, who commenced inquiries into his whereabouts.

His sister thanked the close-knit community for helping in the search, and said Keith “mattered”.

“It is with great sadness that we share the news that our much-loved brother, uncle, and friend, Keith Bagnall, has been located deceased,” Rosemary said on Facebook.

“To everyone who helped us search, prayed, shared posts, walked tracks, checked sheds and roads, and held space for hope — thank you from the bottom of our hearts.

“To Quirindi and Tamworth Police, thank you for your tireless support and ongoing efforts. To Precision Helicopters — and to every friend and member of the public who stood beside us — we are forever grateful.”

Rosemary said Keith will be remembered for both his “kindness” and “mistakes”, which are just parts of what made him the person he was.

“Some will remember your kindness, others your mistakes — both are true, just not the whole truth.

“Every memory is a piece of the puzzle, but not the full picture of a person.

“Keith was more than any single moment — a man with a generous heart, a big laugh, and a love of the land. He mattered. And he will be deeply missed.”

Keith’s “deeply loved” dog Zulu was also mentioned, with Rosemary thanking a local veterinary hospital for taking care of him.

“A very special thank you to the Williams Valley Vets who cared for Keith’s dog Zulu during this difficult time. Your compassion and dedication mean more than words can express. Zulu was deeply loved, and your care brought comfort not only to her, but to all of us who knew how much she meant to Keith,” Rosemary said.

Keith’s body is yet to be formally identified.

Police are not treating the death as suspicious, and will prepare a report for the Coroner.

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