George Michael’s family are keeping his funeral a secret from the late singer’s friends.
The ‘Faith’ hitmaker – who was found dead in bed on Christmas Day (12.25.16) – is reportedly being laid to rest next to his mother at Highgate West Cemetery, north London on Sunday (03.26.17) but his close friends haven’t been informed by his relatives when the service will take place and have been camped outside the graveyard waiting for movement.
A source told the Daily Star newspaper: “They are ready to crash the funeral. They are yards from the entrance. You can’t miss the car. It’s a great big Range rover with personalised number plate.”
The ceremony at Highgate is just 250 yards away from where George – who was just 53 when he passed away from natural causes – is expected to be buried alongside his beloved mother Lesley and will be an intimate affair with just 30 people.
A source previously said: “The funeral is going to be a very small, private gathering. The chapel only seats 30 so, apart from family, there won’t be many others there.
“The details are a closely-guarded secret. Most guests will be told what’s going on a few hours beforehand. The idea is to avoid them being mobbed by fans trying to get a glimpse of their idol’s farewell.”
Though details for the service are being kept as quiet as possible, it is believed former Spice Girls singer Geri Horner will give a reading after George’s Wham! band mate Andrew Ridgeley – who gave a touching tribute to his friend alongside backing singers Pepsi & Shirley at the BRIT Awards last month – felt unable to address the congregation as it would be too emotional.
The source added: “Andrew overcame massive anxieties to perform a tribute at the Brits. He was asked to read at the funeral but felt it would be too much. Instead, Geri has been asked to speak. The choice has raised eyebrows among some of his friends as the two weren’t close when he died.”
It was recently claimed George has left his £10 million London mansion to his older sister Melanie, 55.
Melanie is thought to have already moved into the home whilst she plans the funeral of the ex-Wham! star.
A source said: “George was very close to his whole family but he had a particularly special bond with Melanie, who was by his side at the height of his fame.
“She adores the Highgate house, one of the first he bought. They shared some wonderful times there and it has a special place in her heart. Melanie is staying there at the moment while she organizes the funeral.”
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