Mourners lined the pavements to pay tribute to Jason Sutton, known as Miss Jason to many, on his final send off.
St James’s Street in Kemp Town turned into a sea of black suits with well-wishers following the procession to St Mary’s Church, Brighton, where a service was held.
The performer died, aged 56, on April 22 following an illness in what was a shock to many of his fans. Jason cancelled many of his shows last year as he battled illness.
He was best known for his drag act which saw him appear on stage and screen over more than three decades.
One person among the cortege said: “He was loved by so many. Jason was kind and cared about everyone else.”
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The procession started at Legends bar in Marine Parade and slowly made its way towards the pier roundabout.
Police officers escorted the cortege, stopping traffic on the seafront road and in the Old Steine.
The horses then led his coffin up St James’s Street in Kemp Town towards the church where a large crowd cheered as he arrived for one last time.
The star was a stalwart of the Brighton Christmas pantomimes – most recently playing as one of the wicked stepsisters in Cinderella. He was due to perform as Nurse Nellie in Sleeping Beauty this year.
The service in St Mary’s Church lasted for more than one hour as those closest to him shared some of their favourite memories.
It was led by the vicar of Rottingdean Father Anthony Moore. Jason and his partner Terry lived in the village.
Father Moore said: “The fabulous wonderful entertainer was also a very quiet, gentle and humble person.
“He would come and spend time during the week sitting in St Margaret’s just thinking, saying his prayers, or reflecting on life.
“We were able to have some really good conversations. Particularly towards the end of his life when he was ill.
“I am just sorry that I am not in my 80s and tottering on my zimmer frame. This has happened far too soon. A great treasure has been taken from us and from the community.
“To put it simply, I think God decided heaven needed cheering up a little bit. Today the fountains of eternity will be flowing with Aperol Spritz.”
The funeral was filled with laughter and smiles as Jason was remembered by people who knew him best.
Drag act Mary Mac, real name JP McCue, spoke on behalf of the Two Brewers in London – one of Jason’s favourite venues.
“I, as I am sure most of us do, have so many incredible, funny, silly, naughty, not-to-be-repeated in a place of worship stories.
“What happened in between the songs was truly magical. I have never witnessed someone so continuously off-the-cuff, chaotically hilarious.
“He was always one of the first people I would tell about new projects. His responses were always so supportive and full of pride.”
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