Paul O’Grady’s grave missing headstone nearly two years after star’s death as husband issues update
Paul O’Grady grave remains without a gravestone nearly two years after his death as his widower André Portasio has issued an update on permanent monument to the beloved entertainer.
The beloved broadcaster died aged 67 on March 28, 2023, at his home in Kent.
His death certificate revealed he passed away from sudden cardiac arrhythmia, linked to ischemic heart disease.
The TV star, who first found fame in the ’90s as drag artist Lily Savage, had been without a proper memorial since his burial at St Rumwold’s churchyard in Bonnington, Kent.
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O’Grady was laid to rest next to his best friend and former partner Brendan Murphy, who died from an inoperable brain tumour in 2005.
An announcement on the gravestone made on O’Grady’s official Instagram account, which is still managed by his Portasio and close associates after his passing.
Until now, O’Grady’s resting place had been marked only by wooden crosses and trinkets.
“Nearly two years since Paul’s sad passing, today I received some good news!” the post began.
The message expressed gratitude to the Commissary Court of the Diocese of Canterbury for granting permission “for the final design of Paul and Brendan’s gravestone.”
The headstone will feature a small statue of a dog, a fitting tribute to O’Grady’s well-known love for animals.
“The addition of a small statue of a dog serves as an honouring tribute to Paul’s unwavering love and support of dogs and animals,” the Instagram post explained.
In the announcement, he expressed his appreciation for those who visit the grave.
“Your kindness and compassion mean the world to me,” Portasio wrote.
The 43-year-old added: “I look forward to finally being able to give Paul a deserving and fitting resting place.”
Despite customs typically dictating a one-year wait for a headstone to permit ground settling, the process had been further delayed.
The Diocese of Canterbury required authorisation from ecclesiastical authorities given the hallowed nature of the cemetery grounds.
Earlier this month, Portasio shared news of a new addition to the family.
He posted a picture of a puppy named Petit, writing: “Keeping up with tradition. Petit the newest member of the family.”