Inside TV legend Michael Parkinson’s humble funeral at his village church and last goodbye at his local pub
SIR Michael Parkinson was given a private funeral — with a last goodbye in his local.
Ninety close friends and family went to the service before heading for the pub to toast the chat-show king.
Two bouncers ensured the wake at The Hind’s Head in Bray, Berks, was kept private.
It lasted hours as mourners celebrated Parky’s life while his favourite vocalist, Frank Sinatra, was played in the background.
A source told The Sun: “It was a very dignified send-off for a man who remained understated and classy to the end.
“Everyone was in good spirits remembering him and his achievements. It was perfect.”
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Proud Yorkshireman Parky, who was born in Cudworth, near Barnsley, died at home in Bray last month.
He was 88.
His funeral was held at St Michael’s Church in the village, the congregation all in black.
Family placed a cricket cap in his coffin — he loved the game and played — together with a red and white Barnsley FC scarf.
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The Grimethorpe Colliery Band, from Barnsley, played the tune from his TV chat show.
Sons Michael Jr and Andrew paid tributes to their respected dad, who sat down with 2,000 celebrity guests after pioneering the one-on-one interview format.
Comic Jimmy Tarbuck said of him: “To be born a gentleman is an accident of birth. To die as one is an achievement.”