You were absolutely fabulous, June dear
THE entertainment world paid its respects to Absolutely Fabulous star Dame June Whitfield yesterday at her funeral.
Her co-stars Jennifer Saunders, 60, Joanna Lumley, 72, and Julia Sawalha, 50, were among mourners at All Hallows Church in Tillington, West Sussex, which was adorned with flowers and written tributes from fans.
The much-loved actress died aged 93 on December 29 after a career in which she worked alongside virtually all the greats of British comedy.
Roy Hudd, 82, with whom Dame June appeared in Radio 2’s The News Huddlines for many years, read a eulogy during the service. He said: ‘I had a 35-year course in comedy from the very best.’
Other stars in attendance included actress Nerys Hughes, 77, and writer and broadcaster Gyles Brandreth, 70. Dame June’s daughter, actress Suzy Aitchison, said her mother ‘would have been overwhelmed’ by the turnout. In her eulogy, she said: ‘I am just happy you passed away peacefully in your sleep, as you wanted, and now you are going to rest with Dad. You had the perfect end to your wonderful life, no one could have written your final exit better.’
The back cover of the order of service featured an engagement photograph of Dame June with her husband Tim Aitchison. They married in 1955 and he died in 2001.
The service concluded with a recording of Get Happy sung by Judy Garland while the wicker coffin, covered in bright flowers, was carried from the church.