Paul O’Grady laid to rest after 'moving and jolly' eulogy from Julian Clary
Paul O'Grady has been laid to rest after a "moving" and "jolly" service that included a eulogy from Julian Clary.
The TV icon was laid to rest in Aldington, Kent, a few weeks after his family announced he died "unexpectedly but peacefully" at the age of 67.
His funeral took place on April 20, with thousands of people lining the streets and handfuls of celebrities attending the funeral.
Paul was an exceptionally popular figure in the showbiz world, with the late dad-of-one counting many legendary celebrities and political figures as his close friends.
His husband Andre Portasio rode the horse-drawn carriage carrying the late TV star in his coffin.
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The private funeral was held at St Rumwold's Church in Bonnington, Kent, conducted by the Reverend Canon Roger Martin before mourners went to a wake at Port Lympne Safari Park.
Actor Julian provided a eulogy while Lord Michael Cashman gave the reading.
Julian and Paul were close friendsThe Salvation Army Band played songs such as Annie from Tomorrow - in which Paul was starring in the production at the time of his death.
Following the service, Mr Martin discussed the spirit of the service and said: “The mood was very jolly.
"There were some recordings of Paul, favourite clips, a good selection of varied music, it was lighthearted. It was a moving occasion."
He also added: “It was a very fitting send-off.”
He gave a 'moving' eulogy at the service (PA)
Paul was laid to rest in Kent (Getty Images)The vicar explained how actor and comedian Julian's eulogy was "very entertaining".
He said: "He spoke quite a lot about their stage life together."
When the news of his death broke last month, Julian took to social media to pay tribute to his long-time pal.
Julian posted a snap of himself with the late star to his Twitter page.
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His husband Andre announced the death last month (SWNS)He wrote as a caption: "Farewell to my fierce and funny friend. I'm going to miss you. #RIPPaulO'Grady."
The Lily Savage star is survived by his husband, ex-wife Teresa Fernandes, daughter Sharon O'Grady, grandson Abel, granddaughter, Halo and Diane Jansen, the mother of his only daughter.
The number of mourners gathered to see Paul off as he was laid to rest in Kent today was a testament to how many lives the star touched before his untimely death last month.
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