Downton Abbey star Michelle Dockery pays tribute Cork-born fiancé at funeral

Downton Abbey star Michelle Dockery paid tribute to her Cork-born fiancé John Dineen at his requiem Mass, describing him as her “hero”.

The Golden Globe nominated actress was engaged to public relations director Dineen, who died on Sunday morning in Marymount Hospice in Co Cork after a long illness.

She spent her birthday making preparations for his funeral.

Speaking at the at noon requiem mass at St James’ Church in Ballinora, Co Cork, she described Dineen as a man of “great depth and integrity.”

“Whether in his work or his personal life John was extremely loyal,” she said. “It was clear that when John was in your corner he was there. I was honoured to know John.

“To love him and be loved by him.

“He was my friend, my king, my hero, my everything.

“We celebrate him, we honour him, and we will miss him.”

She added: “John’s charm was legendary.

“He could persuade anyone to do what he wanted in the least pushy way possible. Particularly the women!

“He had a presence that was electric when he came in to the room.

“He had a wicked sense of humour. He had a genuine interest in other people.”