Michelle Dockery led mourners at the funeral of her late fiancé John Dineen today (16.12.15).
The ‘Downton Abbey’ actress was dressed all in black as she headed into the church of St. James at Ballinora, a parish near Cork, Ireland – where the financial public relations senior director was from – following the 34 year old’s death from a rare form of cancer.
John’s friends and family were also in attendance at the service, just minutes from the family farm where he grew up.
Michelle – who turned 34 yesterday – is thought to have been staying at the farm since cutting short a ‘Downton’ promotional tour in the US to be at his bedside.
Father Declan Mansfield, who had been supporting John’s parents through his final few days, led the funeral.
He said the family were "bearing up", adding: "It’s a deep loss for them obviously."
Michelle and John’s engagement was reported in February but the pair didn’t get round to tying the knot.
A friend told the MailOnline: "They had a goal of spending one last Christmas together, but in the end he didn’t make it. They were planning to marry before he got too ill and never managed to do that because Michelle had a bunch of work commitments she couldn’t get out of.
"John was so proud of her and very much encouraged her to keep on working, but she feels terrible that they didn’t manage to tie the knot in time."
Cork councillor Mary Shields has also paid tribute to John, describing him as a "very handsome, beautiful young man".
She is quoted by PEOPLE as saying: "He was so very handsome, a beautiful young man. It’s heart-wrenching to see a young couple separated like this.
"They had their whole lives in front of them. It’s so tragic and so sad.
"The whole community will want to reach out and console the family."
Last night, along with his parents, Maria and Patrick, Michelle is said to have followed John’s coffin to the church ahead of his funeral today.
The 34-year-old actress – who plays Lady Mary Crawley in the period drama – has been left devastated following the death of her fiancé after he passed away at Marymount Hospice in Cork on Sunday (13.12.15).
She has thanked fans for their "kindness and support" following the tragic news.
A spokesperson for Michelle said: "The family is very grateful for the support and kindness they have received but would kindly request that they are left to grieve in private."
Michelle Dockery leads mourners at fiancé’s funeral
