Stars Pay Final Tribute to Paul O’Grady in Emotional Kent Funeral
Rolling Stones legend Ronnie Wood rocked up alongside comedians Alan Carr and Jo Brand to say their goodbyes at Paul O’Grady’s burial in Kent on Thursday afternoon.
The TV star, LGBTQ activist, and dog lover passed away on March 28. His private funeral followed a heartfelt procession through his local Aldington village.
Hundreds Join Procession with Dogs in Tow
Hundreds of mourners turned out, many walking their dogs to honour Paul’s passion for animals. Husband Andre Portasio, visibly emotional, rode in a carriage pulled by two black horses, cradling the couple’s own dog on his lap.
Famous faces including EastEnders’ Linda Henry, LGBTQ campaigner Peter Tatchell, and TV host Gaby Roslin also attended. Comedian Julian Clary, Dame Sheila Hancock, Scott Mitchell (widower of Dame Barbara Windsor), and EastEnders actor Scott Maslen were among the gathering at the church.
Floral Tributes and Moving Music Celebrate Beloved Dog Lover
Floral arrangements shaped like Paul’s adored dog Buster adorned the funeral route. The Salvation Army Band performed tunes from the musical Annie, including “Tomorrow” — a nod to Paul’s ongoing role in a travelling production of the show at the time of his death.
As pallbearers carried Paul’s wooden coffin, draped with a lily wreath, his daughter Sharyn Mousley arrived holding Lily Savage’s iconic wig — a touching tribute to her father’s famous drag alter ego.
Battersea Dogs & Cats Home dogs formed a guard of honour, recognising Paul’s devoted work with the charity. Many dogs wore jackets emblazoned with “rescue is best,” reflecting Paul’s lifelong mission.
Legacy Lives On: Thousands Raised for Battersea Dogs & Cats Home
On his TV show Paul O’Grady: For The Love Of Dogs, Paul rehomed five Battersea dogs. Since his death, over £270,000 has been raised to support the charity.
Villagers began gathering by mid-morning, many with their dogs in tow. One puppy was wheeled in a pram carrying a photo of Paul with a dog, captioned simply, “Thank you.”
Celebrity chefs Andi Oliver and Coronation Street’s Sally Lindsay were seen petting the animals, while Aldington Primary School kids proudly displayed a huge heart-shaped collage filled with canine drawings.
Paul O’Grady died “unexpectedly but peacefully” at his home aged 67. But his love for dogs, activism, and infectious charm made sure he left an unforgettable pawprint on many lives.
