Shola Ameobi said it was an emotional occasion – with a minute's applause preceding the Hawthorns showdown.
Ameobi: "He had a massive impact on my life – he's the one that brought me through the ranks.
"Even after he'd gone, I was in contact with him. He's always been a great mentor to me, and a great friend. He's sorely missed, and our thoughts are obviously with his family and those he was closest to.
"I believe it's important for us not to forget where he brought us as a club, and if we can get back to those heights, it would be a great way of honouring what he did here.
"He always did right up until the end. He was a great character, and a truly great man.
"He's gone, but not forgotten."