Private Funeral with a Last Goodbye at the Local Pub
Sir Michael Parkinson, the iconic TV presenter known for his chat show, was given a private funeral with a last goodbye at his local pub. The service, attended by 90 close friends and family members, took place at St Michael's Church in Bray, Berkshire.
A Dignified Send-Off
The funeral lasted for hours as mourners raised a toast to Parky's life at The Hind's Head pub in Bray, while Frank Sinatra, his favorite vocalist, played in the background. The wake was kept private with the help of two bouncers.
Remembering a TV Legend
Michael Parkinson, known for his one-on-one interview format in which he sat down with 2,000 celebrity guests throughout his career, was remembered by his close friends and family at the funeral. The event was described as a dignified send-off for a man who remained understated and classy until the end.
A Fitting Tribute to a Proud Yorkshireman
Born in Cudworth, near Barnsley, Parky was a proud Yorkshireman. His funeral took place at St Michael's Church in Bray, with the entire congregation dressed in black. His love for cricket, which he played himself, was commemorated by placing a cricket cap in his coffin. Additionally, a red and white Barnsley FC scarf was also placed alongside. The Grimethorpe Colliery Band, from Barnsley, played the tune from his TV chat show during the funeral.
Fond Remembrances
During the funeral, Parky's sons, Michael Jr and Andrew, paid tribute to their respected father. His close friend and comic Jimmy Tarbuck described Parky as a true gentleman, saying, "To be born a gentleman is an accident of birth. To die as one is an achievement."
