Treasured TV star Paul O’Grady died unexpectedly in March 2023 from cardiac arrhythmia, and his family had been fighting to get the presenter the right headstone
Paul O’Grady’s loved ones have secured a win two years after the star’s sudden death.
The For The Love Of Dogs star died “unexpectedly but peacefully” at his home in March 2023 at the age of 67, leaving husband Andre Portasio devastated. It was later reported that the beloved presenter had suffered sudden cardiac arrhythmia.
O’Grady was apparently buried alongside his former partner and good friend Brendan Murphy, who died in 2005 after being diagnosed with a brain tumour. And last year it was reported that the comedian’s grave was still without a headstone as plans for the memorial at St Rumwold’s Churchyard in Bonnington, Kent were tied up in red tape.
However, according to a message on his Instagram page, which his loved ones have maintained, the process has taken a big step forwards this week. “Nearly two years since Paul’s sad passing, today I received some good news!” the post said.
“I would like to extend my sincere gratitude to the Commissary Court of the Diocese of Canterbury, the Parish of Bonnington, and the Church of St Rumwold. Special thanks to Robin Hopkins, Commissary General of the Diocese of Canterbury, for granting permission for the final design of Paul and Brendan’s gravestone.
“The addition of a small statue of a dog serves as an honoring tribute to Paul’s unwavering love and support of dogs and animals. I appreciate everyone who visits the grave and supports our church community.
“Your kindness and compassion mean the world to me.” “I look forward to finally being able to give Paul a deserving and fitting resting place,” said the poignant message.
The Lily Savage star’s former agent Joan Marshrons previously said that organising the memorial was “a lengthy process”. “Rest assured as soon as it comes through a fitting memorial headstone will be in place,” she was quoted as saying last year.
While it was without a headstone, the grave was marked with wooden crosses and flowers. People had also left dog ornaments, in a nod to the late comedian’s devotion to the animals.
O’Grady was a dog lover and many fans took their pet pooches along with them as they lined the streets to pay tribute on the day of his funeral.
He had five dogs himself at the time of his death – Nancy, Arfur, Eddie, Sausage and Conchita. After he died it was reported that he left £125,000 for the care of his adored pets.
He also left £500,000 to Battersea Dogs and Cats Home. O’Grady was an ambassador for the organisation and it was where he filmed his ITV series For The Love Of Dogs, which started in 2012.
The programme has continued since O’Grady’s death, with This Morning presenter Alison Hammond stepping in. “I am very aware that I can never replace the iconic Paul in this wonderful series,” she said when the news was announced.
“But if I can continue to shine a light on the brilliant work done at Battersea and help to tell the stories of these beautiful dogs, then it will be an absolute privilege to give it my all. I can’t wait to share the joy of their searches for new loving forever homes and hopefully make lots of furry friends of my own along the way!”
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Source: Celebrities - dailystar.co.uk
