Comedian Paul O’Grady would have wanted a funeral full of laughs, according to best pal Amanda Mealing.
The BBC actress explained the late star’s lasting wish for his funeral, after his sudden death last week aged 67.
The beloved TV presenter and comedian who also performed as drag comic Lily Savage in the 90s, passed away unexpectedly last week at home in bed.
READ NEXT: Paul O’Grady ‘died in his bed’ next to husband as pal shares details of last moments
Many of his friends and celebrity pals have shared their shock at his sudden death, as well as touching memories of his comedy and kindness.
(Image: PA)
Casualty actress Amanda Mealing, who played Connie Beauchamp in the medical soap, explained the comic’s last wish to The Mirror: “He just told us to have a good time. He’d hate it if everyone was morose.”
She added: “Whatever happens, Paul’s funeral will be a celebration of his life and it will be full of laughter.
“He just told us to have a good time – he’d hate it if everyone was mawkish and morose. He would just say: ‘I don’t care, I won’t be here! Do whatever you want’.”
(Image: Richard Young/REX/Shutterstock)
Describing the moment she learnt of Paul’s death from a text from his husband Andre, Amanda shared: “Andre sent me a text at 1am. I woke up to it. I was just numb. I just couldn’t comprehend what the text had said.
“I just couldn’t understand it. As soon as I got myself together I went down to the house.
“Over the last few days, we’ve started conversations crying and end up laughing with tears just remembering ridiculous stories!”
O’Grady’s husband Andre Portasio confirmed the star’s death in a statement last week on Wednesday.
He wrote: “It is with great sadness that I inform you that Paul has passed away unexpectedly but peacefully yesterday evening.
“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.
“I know that he would want me to thank you for all the love you have shown him over the years.”
Fans of the late TV presenter and celebrity pals, including Gavin & Stacey star Rob Brydon and former Great British Bake Off host Sandi Toksvig have paid tribute to Paul since the news of his death broke.
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Source: Celebrities - dailystar.co.uk
