Barry Humphries laid to rest

Barry Humphries has been laid to rest.

The 89-year-old Dame Edna Everage star passed away in hospital earlier this month after suffering complications from hip replacement surgery and his family have held a private funeral for him at the Bowral estate of longtime friend and artist Tim Storrier in New South Wales' Southern Highlands.

According to The Australian, guests were only given 24 hours notice about the funeral.

Film director Bruce Beresford said: "It was a small affair, just family and close friends.

"It was very touching, very warm. Everybody was either ¬related or a great friend of Barry's."

Barry's wife Lizzie Spender was at the ceremony, along with his two sons, Oscar and Rupert, who flew in from London, his daughters Emily and Tessa, brother Christopher and sister Barbara.

No speeches were made but excerpts some poems, including 'The Heart of a Friend' by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow, were read out.

Barry’s family said in a statement following his death: “He was completely himself until the very end, never losing his brilliant mind, his unique wit and generosity of spirit.

“With over 70 years on the stage, he was an entertainer to his core, touring up until the last year of his life and planning more shows that will sadly never be.

“His audiences were precious to him, and he never took them for granted.

“Although he may be best remembered for his work in theatre, he was a painter, author, poet, and a collector and lover of art in all its forms.

“He was also a loving and devoted husband, father, grandfather, and a friend and confidant to many. His passing leaves a void in so many lives.

“The characters he created, which brought laughter to millions, will live on.”