Madonna joins mourners of Irish designer

Broken-hearted pop queen Madonna has joined mourners in Dublin at the funeral of her close pal David Collins — a renowned Irish interior designer and architect.

The star made the trip from America, arriving in Heathrow Airport in London dressed all in black over the weekend.

She then took a flight to Dublin, staying in the luxury Ritz Carlton Hotel in Wicklow before attending David’s funeral in Monkstown in south Dublin yesterday.

Collins, 58, and Madonna had become close friends when she was living in London, where he was based and had his own studio. He died just three weeks after being diagnosed with a virulent form of skin cancer.

Besides designing the interiors of her homes, he also designed some of her favourite haunts, including Claridges.

An insider said: “Madonna is beside herself with grief. David was one of her closest pals. She adored him. They’d often have a laugh, driving around London together. She can’t believe he died so quickly.”

A post on her Instagram account featured a picture of red roses with the message: “In memory of David Collins.”

Besides working with Madonna, Collins also created new concepts for Alexander McQueen and Jimmy Choo. He also worked on many, high-end fashion boutiques and luxury apartment stores.

David’s family here asked mourners to donate to the Macmillan cancer fund instead of sending flowers. They also set up the David Collins Tribute Fund for contributions.

Madonna attended the funeral dressed in a blue-black dress with small white polka dots.

Also in attendance at the service was Cork-raised chat show host, Graham Norton, who is believed to have been pals with the designer.

After consoling David’s grief-stricken family, Madonna is expected to fly back to America.

David died on Jul 17 and his body was flown back to Dublin for his funeral.