The Funeral of Stephen Gately

 It has been a week since news of Stephen's untimely death broke. As an apparently fit and healthy young man of 33 he was far too young to have passed away. Still that is exactly what had happened.

This leading light of boy band Boyzone was an integral part of their unique sound and would be missed by fans and band members alike.

By Friday 16th October slurs and accusations were being reported. It is alleged that Stephen and his male lover had entertained a third man the night that Stephen passed away.  It has also been said that Stephen had smoked cannabis. Well all I can say is big deal. Not many people are saintly angels these days and times are different to years ago.

Hard drugs and sex crimes are one thing but consensual gay sex and soft drugs are nothing to blacken any-one's character, especially when they can no longer defend their reputation.

It is safe to say that Stephen was a nice guy, cheeky and funny who was loved by many. He will be sadly missed around the world.

The funeral was held on home territory, for Stephen and his band mates, namely Dublin, Ireland. Crash barriers had been erected for the expected fans and there were plenty of them. Over three and a half thousand people were there to say Goodbye to Stephen.

The St Laurence O'Toole Memorial Church, Dublin, was where the funeral service was held. With Ronan Keating sadly speaking the eulogy emotion was running high.

Boyzone sang the Westlife track, In This Life, during the service.

The congregation included celebrities such as Jason Donovan, Vanessa Feltz, Sir Elton John’s partner David Furnish and Christopher Biggins. The family have already received messages of condolences from George Michael, David and Victoria Beckham, Simon Cowell, Take That, Westlife, U2, Robbie Williams, Cheryl Cole, Colin Farrell, Sharon Osborne, Brian McFadden and Delta Goodrem. Louis Walsh had stepped out of X Factor this weeked to attend Stephen's funeral.

Many fans have expressed their disgust at the slanderous article in the press which cast doubts on just how Stephen died and what he and his lover were up to. Personally I would not give that writer anymore publicity.

Perhaps the true reason why Stephen had fluid in his lungs may never be known. Whatever the reason it is a tragic accident. No-one was responsible so it was not murder. Stephen was not dead drunk but had enjoyed a fun night out with a few drinks and perhaps a joint. Neither warrant death.

The world has lost many celebrities this year and Stephen is yet another. However Stephen was so young and well that it seems so unfair.

As a charming, bubbly guy though he will leave a warmth in the hearts of his fans and friends for years to come.