*Aretha Franklin, the Queen of Soul’s home going service can best be described as a combination of a revival, political rally, motivational talk, musical tributes, roast and of course worship. Presenters from the world of entertainment, sports, politics, business, and just friends came together on one stage to celebrate not only Franklin’s musical talents but her activism and the many lives she touched.
Franklin died Aug. 16 of pancreatic cancer at the age of 76.
The service held at Greater Grace Temple was presided over by Bishop Charles H. Ellis, 111 who is also a long time family friend. Lining the street to the Church on Seven Mile road was a sea of over 100 Pink Cadillacs. Ellis and his wife Crisette Ellis thought up the idea. The cars arrived post arrival of Franklin, but as the funeral procession left for the cemetery they were four deep. Cristine Ellis is national sales for Mary Kay Cosmetic. So she didn’t have to go far to find owners of Pink Cadillacs. The company uses pink colored Cadillacs as a sales incentive for reaching what it calls “Grand Achiever” level of sales.
They came from across the nation suited in their signature outfits. They even had a special section in the Church. But there was some vintage Cadillacs on display. Bringing your car meant you would get entrance into the funeral.
The day kicked-off with the fourth and final viewing of the week which was held between 8:30-9:30AM – Two days of public at The Charles H. Wright Museum on Tuesday and Wednesday followed by another public viewing on Thursday at New Bethel Church. The Queen had clothing change for each of these viewing. For this final viewing she wore a gold lame dress and her gold Christian Louboutine Shoes – the red soles. Ever a signature of a Diva. Everything from the arrangement of the flowers that surround the 24 karat gold plated casket, which was similar to the one of Michael Jackson and James Brown, to the arrangements of the pastel colored roses that surround the casket was flawless.
In the foyer of the church attendees had the chance to see to floral arrangements sent by stars from around the World. The Miracles and The Four Tops arrangement was very dramatic, Mariah Carey’s White Roses formed into a cross was much photographed. Rod Steward, Elton John, Barbara Streisand, and Jimmy Fallon are just a few of the major stars from around the world who sent flowers. Oddly enough the arrangement sent on behalf of Diana Ross was more suitable as a tabletop. Franklin’s casket was surrounded by pastel roses and a Bleeding Heart from her grandchildren.
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