DECLAN Donnelly was overcome with emotion while paying tribute to his brother as hundreds of mourners paid their respects to Father Dermott.
The respected Catholic priest, 55, passed away at the University Hospital of North Durham, in County Durham, on July 8 after a short illness.
TV presenter Dec, 46, was seen carrying his brother’s coffin into St Mary’s Cathedral in Newcastle yesterday for the vigil service.
At the funeral today he gave a speech in honour of Father Dermott.
He said: “Unfortunately, today the world is now a slightly worse place because Dermott is no longer with us.
“He still had so much more he wanted to do.
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“We can’t believe he’s gone. We can’t understand why he’s gone.
“We trust God has took him because his talents are needed elsewhere.
“We as a family miss him immeasurably. Rest in Peace Dermott.”
Fellow Geordie star Ant McPartlin, 46, arrived ahead of the service, alongside his wife Anne-Marie Corbett.
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The news of Father Donnelly’s passing broke earlier this month.
Saturday Night Takeaway and I’m A Celebrity presenter star Dec said on Twitter: “I am heartbroken to tell you that my darling brother Fr Dermott, @TweeterPriest, sadly passed away this afternoon.
“We are all beyond devastated. Thank you for your messages of sympathy and support, they are appreciated.”
Ant also paid his own tribute to Father Donnelly, writing on Twitter: “Fr Dermott you were the kindest, wisest man I knew. Rest in peace my friend. You will never be forgotten.
“My thoughts, prayers and love are with your wonderful family. The world has lost a special man. X A.”
Fr Donnelly had celebrated 30 years of service to his parish and community shortly before his death.
Dec was seen carrying his brother’s coffin into the vigil service yesterday[/caption]
