A private memorial for the 'At Last' singer is set for Saturday, January 28 in Gardena, California, and Reverend Al Sharpton is expected to deliver the eulogy.
- January 25, 2012
AceShowbiz -
Etta James will be laid to rest this coming Saturday, January 28. Details of the Blues legend's funeral have just been released to public as spokeswoman Rachel Noerdlinger told CNN that the private memorial will take place at 10 A.M. at the Greater Bethany Community Church City of Refuge in Gardena, California.
The funeral "is private for immediate family and friends," and Reverend Al Sharpton is expected to deliver the eulogy. Fans are given a chance to pay their final respect to the "At Last" hitmaker a day prior. A public viewing is set to take place from 5 to 10 P.M. Friday, January 27 at the Manchester Chapel of the Inglewood Cemetery in Inglewood, California.
Words have run wild, James' funeral will include performances by celebrities. The lineup, however, is still being kept under wraps. In the meantime, family of the late 73-year-old singer, who died from complications of leukemia, has requested donations be sent to The Rhythm & Blues Foundation.
James drew her last breath on January 20 morning at a hospital in Riverside, California. Since news of her passing broke out, many musician and celebrities alike have expressed their admiration of the legendary songbird. The latest was Adele, who wrote on her website, "What a lady Etta James was."
The "Rolling in the Deep" hitmaker continued, "She was the ultimate original. Her voice was breath taking and her songs are reflections we all recognize in some way or another. Its an honor every time I hear her voice. I saw her at BB Kings in New York a few years ago, and it was something I will remember forever. Thank you to Etta James."
