George Michael laid to rest in private funeral three months after death

March 29 (UPI) -- Singer George Michael was laid to rest on Wednesday, three months after he died at age 53 on Christmas Day.

Family and friends gathered at an intimate, private funeral in London at Highgate Ceremony as Michael was buried next to his mother, Lesley, who died 20 years ago.

"We can confirm that the funeral of the singer George Michael took place today. Family and close friends gathered for the small, private ceremony to say goodbye to their beloved son, brother and friend," a statement on behalf of his family said. "George Michael's family would like to thank his fans across the world for their many messages of love and support. We ask that the family's wish for privacy be respected so that they can continue to live their lives privately, away from any media intrusion. No further details will be released."

Reports said the funeral was attended by Michael's boyfriend Fadi Fawaz, Wham! bandmate Andrew Ridgeley, Helen 'Pepsi' DeMacque-Crockett and Shirlie Kemp.

His burial follows a report from senior coroner for Oxfordshire Darren Salter on March 7, which revealed Michael died of natural causes due to heart disease and a fatty liver.

"As there is a confirmed natural cause of death, being Dilated Cardiomyopathy with Myocarditis and Fatty Liver, the investigation is being discontinued and there is no need for an inquest or any further enquiries," Salter said.