Aretha Franklin‘s fans will be able to say goodbye to the late music icon during two public viewings planned before her funeral.
The Queen of Soul tragically passed away on Thursday, Aug. 16, at the age of 76. Before she is laid to rest at the end of this month, the beloved singer’s devoted fans will be given the chance to pay their respects to her.
Aretha’s publicist tells People magazine that on Aug. 28 and Aug. 29, public viewings will be held at the Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History in Detroit, where members of the public will be able to visit the “Respect” hitmaker between 9 a.m. and 9 p.m.
The music icon’s funeral will then take place on Aug. 31 at Greater Grace Temple in Detroit, but the ceremony, which will begin at 10 a.m., is strictly limited to friends and family of the late singer.
Following the ceremony, Aretha will be laid to rest at Woodlawn Cemetery, where several of her family members are also buried.
Her representative told People magazine: “Aretha Franklin will be entombed at Woodlawn Cemetery in Detroit, Michigan, along with her father, the Rev. C.L. Franklin; brother Cecil Franklin; sisters Carolyn Franklin and Erma Franklin; and nephew, Thomas Garrett.”
The “Natural Woman” singer passed away after having been “gravely ill” for some time.
In a statement, her family said: “In one of the darkest moments of our lives, we are not able to find the appropriate words to express the pain in our heart. We have lost the matriarch and rock of our family. The love she had for her children, grandchildren, nieces, nephews and cousins knew no bounds.
“We have been deeply touched by the incredible outpouring of love and support we have received from close friends, supporters and fans all around the world. Thank you for your compassion and prayers. We have felt your love for Aretha, and it brings us comfort to know that her legacy will live on. As we grieve, we ask that you respect our privacy during this difficult time.”
