Paul O'Grady memorial to be held at wildlife park after sudden death at 67

15 April 2023 , 21:33

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Paul O'Grady memorial to be held at wildlife park after sudden death at 67

Following the death of comedian and TV presenter Paul O'Grady, his funeral will take place at Port Lympne Safari Park - where the 67-year-old was a regular visitor.

Plans are reportedly under way to remember and celebrate his life at the reserve, owned by conservationist Damian Aspinall.

Paul's grieving loved ones believe he would have wanted the animals he adored to 'be around' during his funeral.

Mail Online reports that there will be a service at a nearby church before a celebration of Paul's life will be held at the venue.

"Paul loved Port Lympne. He got to know some of its residents very well and it was thought by his nearest and dearest that it would be a beautiful idea to hold his funeral there so they are in attendance, too. Staff hope they can do him proud," a source told the publication.

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Paul O'Grady memorial to be held at wildlife park after sudden death at 67 (PA)

The much-loved TV presenter died at his Kent home on March 28.

A statement shared by family at the time of Paul's death revealed the Lily Savage star had died 'unexpectedly but peacefully' at the age of 67.

The official death certificate has now confirmed that Paul died from sudden cardiac arrhythmia.

The British Heart Foundation, describes sudden arrhythmic death syndrome - or SADS - as person dying suddenly following a cardiac arrest and no obvious cause can be found.

Paul died at the age of 67 (Ben Perry/REX/Shutterstock)

Paul had spoken openly about his battles with heart disease and having endured three heart attacks before the age of 65.

His death certificate, obtained by the Daily Express, showed long-time friend and former PA and agent, Joan Marshrons, registered the entertainer's death six days after he died at home.

Paul's husband Andre Portasio said the loss had come as 'unexpectedly' to his loved ones as he made the devastating news public on social media.

"It is with great sadness that I inform you that Paul has passed away unexpectedly but peacefully yesterday evening," Andre penned last month.

Paul O' Grady died last month aged 67 (Channel 4)

"We ask, at this difficult time, that whilst you celebrate his life you also respect our privacy as we come to terms with this loss.

"He will be greatly missed by his loved ones, friends, family, animals and all those who enjoyed his humour, wit and compassion.

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"I know that he would want me to thank you for all the love you have shown him over the years."

Paul had previously joked he was 'counting his blessings' in regards to his health and said it would be a 'miracle' if he reached 60.

Susan Knox