The Princess of Wales, rock superstar Elton John and other members of the exclusive set Gianni Versace counted as his friends paid their last respects to the murdered fashion designer yesterday at a mass at Milan Cathedral. British rock star Sting, British supermodel Naomi Campbell, choreographer Maurice Bejart and other celebrities joined a crowd of friends and onlookers in the famous cathedral.
Versace's brother, Santo, and his sister, Donatella, led a grief-stricken Elton John away from the Franciscan chapel where the ashes of the murdered fashion designer were on display. Italian Olympic ski champion Alberto Tomba and designers Chiara Boni and Ottavio Missoni also attended.
Versace was cremated in Miami after a simple family ceremony last week. The ashes were then placed under close guard. The family fears vandalism after Versace's mother's tomb in southern Italy was tampered with 10 years ago. - (Reuter, AFP) See also page 13