Cat Deeley was absent from her mother-in-law’s funeral on Monday, choosing instead to remain in London to care for her two young sons, 

who are mourning the loss of their grandmother. 

The television presenter, 48, continued her hosting duties on This Morning while her husband, Patrick Kielty, 54, 

attended the funeral in his home village in County Down, Northern Ireland.

Patrick Kielty’s Heartfelt Goodbye

Patrick Kielty was seen looking visibly emotional as he carried his mother Mary’s coffin through the streets of his hometown. 

Surrounded by close family and friends, he was joined by his brothers, John and Cahal, as they laid their mother to rest at the Church of the Sacred Heart. Mary, who was in her 80s, passed away on Saturday at her home in Dundrum.

A death notice released by the family expressed their sorrow, stating that Mary “will be sadly missed and lovingly remembered by her entire family circle, neighbours, and friends.” Mourners gathered to support Patrick and his family as they paid their final respects.

Cat Deeley’s Difficult Decision

While Patrick grieved with his family, Cat Deeley remained in London with their sons, Milo, 8, and James, 5. A spokesperson for Cat explained that her absence was a deeply personal decision, made to ensure she could be present for her children during a difficult time.

“Cat remained at home to be there for her two young children before and after school on this very sad day,” the spokesperson stated. Despite other presenters such as Alison Hammond, Josie Gibson, and Rochelle Humes being available to cover her role, Cat chose to fulfill her professional obligations and provide stability for her sons.

A Legacy of Strength and Resilience

Patrick has spoken fondly of his mother over the years, often praising her unwavering support throughout his career. In 2023, he shared in an interview that Mary had been “secretly delighted” when he was chosen as the host of The Late Late Show. He recalled how she would humorously deflect praise from well-wishers, reminding them that she had three sons, not just one.

Patrick’s mother played a vital role in his upbringing, especially after the tragic loss of his father, Jack Kielty. Jack was murdered by Loyalist paramilitaries in 1988 during the Troubles in Northern Ireland. Patrick, who was only 16 at the time, has openly discussed the impact of this tragedy on his life.

During a BBC documentary marking the 20th anniversary of the Good Friday Agreement, Patrick described how his mother became the pillar of strength for their family. “My dad was a brave man, but it was my mum who wanted to protect us,” he said. “She was 46 when he died and she never remarried.”

Patrick recounted the devastating moment he was called into his school’s headmaster’s office to be informed of his father’s murder. The attackers had mistakenly believed his father to be an IRA member, a claim that was immediately dismissed by authorities.

Supporting Each Other in Grief

Cat and Patrick have been married for 12 years and have built a strong family life together. Though she could not be at the funeral, Cat’s choice to stay with their children highlights her dedication as a mother. Losing a grandparent is an incredibly difficult experience for young children, and Cat prioritized being there to support them emotionally.

Patrick’s grief was evident as he paid his final respects to his mother, but he had the support of his brothers and extended family during the service. Meanwhile, Cat ensured that their children were comforted during this challenging time.

Looking Ahead

Despite this heartbreaking loss, Cat is expected to continue with her presenting duties on This Morning, including Tuesday’s episode. Her commitment to both her family and her professional responsibilities reflects the difficult balance she must maintain during this period of mourning.

Patrick’s mother Mary was deeply cherished, and her passing marks the end of an era for the Kielty family. However, her memory will live on in the hearts of those who loved her, and Patrick will undoubtedly carry forward the strength and resilience she instilled in him.

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