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AFP
DETROIT
POLITICAL dignitaries and music royalty led the tributes to Aretha Franklin at her star-studded funeral on Friday, joining her family and members of the public in bidding goodbye to America's 'Queen of Soul'.
The service, a celebration of the life and legacy of the music icon, was full of song, uplifting eulogies and humorous anecdotes at the Greater Grace Temple in her hometown Detroit.
The 76-year-old singer, beloved by millions around the world, died of cancer on August 16, closing the curtain on a glittering six-decade career that spanned Gospel, R&B, Jazz, Blues and even classical music.
Former US president Bill Clinton was among the guests, while letters were read out from his successors George W Bush and Barack Obama extolling her contribution to America and her cultural importance.
Franklin's golden casket was flanked by enormous blooms of lavender, cream and pink roses, while the church packed with smartly dressed mourners. It was an upbeat and jubilant service celebrating Franklin, uplifting her family in their time of grief and celebrating her gospel legacy. Worshippers were even urged to get to their feet and dance at one point.
