Hello Friends & Happy New Year!
I've been offline for a while, traveling to see my family and working on various projects, but as you know the Death never takes a holiday so we have some catching up to do.
This blog was never intended to be celebrity-driven but living in Los Angeles, that news sometimes takes center stage. For those who sent me messages asking for updates on Brittany Murphy and Michael Jackson, yes, I will continue to cover relevant news on the final resting places of these two sweet souls in 2011 - and other fascinating civilian finds along the way.
But I can't start the new year off without paying tribute to the legendary Ivory Queen of Soul© Teena Marie, who passed away at the age of 54 the day after Christmas, in her sleep, of apparent natural causes.
Photo Credit: Randee St. Nicholas
Her memorial service was held today at Forest Lawn Hollywood Hills, at 1pm in the Hall of Liberty. It was strictly private so I did not go to the cemetery, but you can read details from this Associated Press report and a report from Yahoo! Music.
Sources in the know confirmed that Teena was cremated and that her cremated remains were divided up, not once or even twice, but 25 times. They were placed in mini-urns and classified as "take homes" - a first for Forest Lawn, I'm told. I don't know whose idea it was, but I think it was brilliant. Sharing Teena = sharing the love.
Here's Teena performing one of my personal favorites (it's impossible to choose one song) Cassanova Brown live on BET, courtesy of 26Craig90.
I thought this video of Teena being honored by the R&B Foundation with its 2008 Pioneer Award might provide insight into her career for readers whether you're familiar with her work or not. And get out your kleenex at 4:30 in when Teena expresses gratitude for the blessings in her life.
RIP Lady Tee, gone too soon. Condolences to your daughter, family and all who love you.
Want to leave a message or flower on Teena's Findagrave memorial page? Go here.
Wonderful Tribute Lisa. Teena was a Brilliant Artist who can never be duplicated I'm glad god took her peacefully just sad for her Daughter and all who will miss her. She left us way too soon I'm glad I have her music to remember her by.
Posted by: Lisa Sinkko | Jan 12, 2011 at 07:39
Absolutely brilliant. I would so loved to have seen this live. I think you did Lisa proud.
Posted by: Birmingham resident | Feb 12, 2013 at 05:41