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Diva Whitney Houston is finally being laid to rest in what her family is calling a “homegoing” service. They did not want the ceremony to be referred to as a funeral and wanted to celebrate her life.
The invitation-only service is expected to be attended by Oprah, Rev. Jesse Jackson, Beyonce, Jay-Z, Elton John and other notable people she came across after her more than 30 years in the music industry.
Her “Aunt Ree” (Aretha Franklin) was scheduled to sing “The Greatest Love of All,” but is unable to attend because of poor health.
The service will feature performances by Stevie Wonder — singing one of his hits, “Ribbon in the Sky” — R&B star R. Kelly, Alicia Keys and gospel greats Kim Burrell and BeBe Winans.
The New Hope Baptist Church Mass Choir and the New Jersey Mass Choir will open the noon service. Pastor Marvin Winans will deliver the eulogy.
Bishop T.D. Jakes will deliver remarks, along with Kevin Costner, Houston’s co-star in the movie “The Bodyguard;” her mentor, music mogul Clive Davis; and director-producer Tyler Perry.
Whitney’s sister-in-law, Patricia Houston, and her cousin singer Dionne Warwick are also scheduled to speak.
Her ex-husband, Bobby Brown and the father of her 18-year-old daughter, Bobbi Kristina, is also expected to attend the service.
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May her soul finally rest in peace.
