Paul O’Grady’s Grave Still Awaiting Headstone More Than 18 Months After Burial
More than 18 months after the interment of Paul O’Grady, the comedian’s gravesite remains without a headstone, a friend has revealed in a recent update. The cherished entertainer, who rose to prominence as the drag artist Lily Savage in the 1990s and was also a notable activist, passed away from a cardiac arrhythmia at his residence in March 2023, aged 67.
He was laid to rest the subsequent month at St Rumwold’s churchyard in Bonnington, Kent. While the custom is to allow approximately a year for ground settlement before installing a headstone, the procedure appears to be more protracted than anticipated. The comedian’s loved ones, friends, and admirers are still awaiting a more fitting tribute.
Calls for a Permanent Memorial
Currently, Paul’s final resting place is marked with wooden crosses and decorative ornaments. However, his close friend, Sue Lanborn, has advocated for a more permanent memorial. O’Grady was interred beside his close companion and former partner, Brendan Murphy, who tragically passed away from an inoperable brain tumor in 2005.
Speaking to The Sun, Ms. Lanborn asserted the necessity for “a proper headstone, even something simple such as an engraving of Paul’s dog Buster.” Plans for the headstone’s installation are reportedly under submission. However, O’Grady’s former agent, Joan Marshrons, acknowledged that the process is “unfortunately a lengthy” one.
Ms. Marshrons further stated, “Rest assured, a suitable memorial headstone will be placed as soon as approval is granted.” The Diocese of Canterbury requires ecclesiastical court authorization for any memorial addition due to the churchyard’s consecrated status.
Headstone Design Approved
Recent reports indicate that the Commissary Court of the Diocese of Canterbury has approved the final design for Paul and Brendan’s gravestone. The headstone will feature a small dog statue, a poignant homage to the late entertainer.
The update was shared on O’Grady’s official Instagram account, managed by those closest to him posthumously. The post conveyed: “Nearly two years since Paul’s sad passing, today I received some good news!”
Gratitude Expressed for Memorial Approval
The Instagram post continued, “I extend 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 definitive design of Paul and Brendan’s gravestone.”
“I appreciate everyone who visits the grave and supports our church community. Your kindness and compassion are deeply valued. I eagerly anticipate finally providing Paul with a deserving and appropriate final resting place.”
Health History and Passing
The Birkenhead native had experienced several health issues throughout his career, including cardiac episodes, renal failure, and contracting Covid-19, yet consistently demonstrated resilience. Andre Portasio, his husband, stated at the time of O’Grady’s death that he passed away “unexpectedly but peacefully” at their shared home.
On the anniversary of O’Grady’s passing this year, Mr. Portasio recounted to The Mirror finding him in their Kent residence’s kitchen. Speaking to the publication, he shared: “Suddenly, you start remembering where we were, and what we were doing together. It reminded me just how fortunate I was to have had him in my life.”