Thousands lined the streets for a farewell procession leading up to the boxing legend's funeral, which was attended by Will Smith, Mike Tyson, Lennox Lewis and former president Bill Clinton The athlete-turned-activist's daughter Laila Ali, wife Lonnie Ali and other family members came out to pay their respects as well.
The service took place at the KFC Center in Louisville and was open to the public; it was also live streamed. Pallbearers included Smith, who portrayed the boxer in the 2001 movie Ali, Lennox and Tyson. Ali was eulogized by his wife, followed by his oldest daughter Maryum Ali. Lifelong friend John Ramsey, actor Billy Crystal, sportscaster Bryan Gumbel and Clinton also offered remarks.
A family spokesman confirmed to E! News that a private viewing will be held for Ali's family.
Ali's death is undoubtedly a huge loss for the world, and especially those closest to him, but as his daughter Laila explained on Today, she's found a sense of peace in his passing. "I personally have been sad for a long time," she said. "My father has been struggling with Parkinson's disease for many years and it wasn't easy to watch him suffer, so knowing that he's not suffering anymore is what gives me comfort," she said during an interview on Today.
"I think that the whole world is sad—anybody who ever loved him and so many people do, so I don't feel alone," she added. "It's not just our family, it's the world."
No comments:
Post a Comment