Cilla Black - A Tribute To The Star Who Made Us Smile

We were truly saddened to hear of the death of Cilla Black. The singer and TV presenter provided us with endlass moments of joy. Here are 9 of her best quotes...

Singer, Match-maker and good-time girl, Cilla Black OBE was one of the few celebrities loved the country over. Her Liverpudlian charm, down-to-earth nature and willingness to open up to the public led to her having a special place in our hearts.

Born in Liverpool in 1943, she was first introduced to the public as a singer in 1963, with singles such as 'Anyone Who Had a Heart', and 'Alfie'. She went on to host her own variety show, Cilla, followed by eveyone's favourite Saturday night entertainment: Blind Date. She celebrated 50 years in showbusiness in 2013, and the occasion was marked by a documentary, where the actress Sheridan Smith played the role of Cilla.

Her death shocked the public, and the outpouring of affection for the star has touched her family and friends. Her public funeral took place today (20th August) at St Mary's RC Church in Liverpool. It was led by the Right Reverend Thomas Williams, Auxiliary Bishop of Liverpool. Two of Cilla's sons delivered readings, alongside a host of famous faces including moving speeches from Cliff Richard and Paul O'Grady.

The funeral was a sad occasion, yet also a joyful celebration of a woman who was so well-loved. Cilla Black, you will be sorely missed.

Cliff Richard speaks at the funeral

Cliff Richard, a close friend of Cilla's, performed the song 'Faithful One' at the funeral. He spoke touchingly of her, saying: "the one thing that hit me originally was that she was a woman of commitment and dedication. She had the determination and above all she had the gift - she was able to do what she set out to do. My memories of Cilla are going to be very, very happy ones."

Paul O'Grady delivers eulogy

Paul O'Grady delivered a touching, yet humorous eulogy at the funeral for his "soulmate", Cilla. His talk was sprinkled with hilarious anecdotes, adding a sense of joy and celebration to the proceedings amidst the sadness and mourning. He said: "I firmly believed she was indesctructable and I always thought I'd be the one to go first. We discussed my funeral a mumber of times and she had a major role in it which involved a mantilla and lillies. I'm going to have to re-think that now, aren't I?" He later said: "If I had to sum Cilla up in one word, it would be 'laughter', because that's all we did. We got up to a lot of trouble but we laughed while we were doing it". Click through to see some of Cilla's best quotes...

Cilla Black

Who could forget Blind Date? Cilla was the original cupid, bringing hundreds of couples together from behind a wall. One couple are still married 22 years later - and Cilla was their guest of honour at the wedding!

Cilla Black

Cilla had a short run in music in the US in the sixties - her British charm won them over at a time when The Beatles were making waves.

Cilla Black

Her honesty during interviews won her legions of fans. She regularly opened up about her feelings, and wasn't afraid to admit to her weaknesses.

Cilla Black

Never one to shy away from the camera, Cilla was a born exhibitionist. We loved her daring side - she was never afraid to flash those incredible pins!

Cilla Black

Despite being comfortable in front of the cameras, Cilla led a fairly quiet private life. She tended to shy away from public events where possible, and saved her star quality for the cameras.

Cilla Black

Cilla's 'deeply personal' autobiography, 'What's It All About?' was a top five bestseller. The public were truly interested in finding out more about the star.

Cilla Black

She regularly admitted to struggling with the ageing process, but the star's upbeat philosophy on growing old was a source of inspiration.

Cilla Black

Cilla always made it clear that she would like to be remembered as a singer, rather than TV presenter. Her hits are still loved by many - which was your favourite?

Cilla Black

Ever the optimist, Cilla was always quick to tell the world how lucky she felt she had been. Despite some traumas, including the death of her beloved husband Bobby, she always appeared bright and bubbly, and truly grateful. Her infectious personality will be truly missed.