Jackson’s Burial Still a Mystery

The public memorial service is done and dusted, but it is still not known where Michael Jackson will be put to rest.

The media in Los Angeles is in a frenzy trying to locate the King of Pop’s final resting place, and so far the only confirmation they have had is that Jackson’s body will not be going back to Forest Lawn.

According to sources, Jackson’s death certificate lists Forest Lawn as the responsible mortuary because the body of the late performer was embalmed there; however, all other information is being kept under lock and key.

If Jackson’s casket does go back to Forest Lawn after the family’s private wake, a source added, it’s a decoy.

[Source]

Michael Jackson Farewelled

Iconic performer Michael Jackson has been farewelled in a heartfelt memorial service that more than 1.5 million registered to attend.

Only a few thousand lucky fans and celebrity friends were cleared for entry for the two-and-a-half hour tribute to the King of Pop’s short and colourful life, the most notable of those being Mariah Carey, Queen Latifah, Lionel Richie and Brooke Shields, who all gave thanks to the 50-year-old contributions to music and life.

The most heartbreaking speech of all came from the singer’s 11-year-old daughter, Paris Katherine Michael, who fought back tears as she told the world that her father was “the best father you could ever imagine.”

At one point, her aunt Janet Jackson leaned into the microphone and told the young child to “speak up.” It was the first time Paris had even spoken in public.

“Ever since I was born, Daddy has been the best father you could ever imagine,” the young girl said. “And I just wanted to say I love him so much.”

The memorial service began with Mariah Carey’s soulful rendition of the Jackson 5 hit I’ll Be There, which followed the entrance of Michael’s 14-carat gold-plated casket.

Pastor Lucious Smith then paid tribute to the popstar with a powerful speech, thanking him for his contributions to the world, for bringing acceptance for all other races within the musical community with his unique talents that touched the hearts of so many people.

Queen Latifah then read a poem from Maya Angelou, who’d asked the singer and actress to read it at the ceremony on her behalf. Lionel Richie’s performance of Jesus is Love followed.

Earlier, messages of condolences from former South African president Nelson Mandela and singer Diana Ross were read out to the packed Staples Centre.

Mandela’s message was read by singer Smokey Robinson.

“Michael was a giant and a legend in the music industry. And we mourn with the millions of fans worldwide,” Robinson began, on behalf of the South African icon.

“We had great admiration for his talent and that he was able to triumph over tragedy on so many occasions in his life.

“My wife and I, our family, our friends, send you our condolences during this time of mourning. Be strong, Nelson Mandela.”

Diana Ross’ message were shorter, confirming that she would not be attending the public service in Los Angeles, choosing instead to “pause and be silent.”

“This feels right for me,” Ross said. “Michael was a personal love of mine, a treasured part of my world, part of the fabric of my life.

“Michael wanted me to be there for his children, and I will be there if they ever need me. I hope today brings closure for all those who loved him.”

Jackson’s brothers and sisters gave heartfelt tributes of their own to their beloved Michael, and the service was closed with a host of stars on stage – including Michael’s three children – singing along to We Are The World.

When the ceremony had ended, pallbearers carried Jackson’s golden coffin covered in red flowers outside and loaded it into a black hearse for burial and the Jackson family’s private wake.

It is not known where Michael Jackson’s body will finally be laid to rest.

[Source]