On Aug. 31, Aretha Franklin's "Celebration of Life" [1] began with prayers and songs, filling the streets of her hometown Detroit with music as she was laid to rest. The Queen of Soul Ariana Grande [2], and Faith Hill [3], as well as remarks from the Rev. Jesse Jackson, Smokey Robinson, and former president Bill Clinton. Though the funeral is invite-only, the service will be broadcast on television and streamed online [4] to provide fans a final opportunity to say goodbye. Earlier in the week, fans were able to pay their respects at the Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History for a public viewing [5] for the late Queen of Soul. There will also be an exhibit at the Charles H. Wright Museum [6] entitled "Think," which is described as a tribute to Aretha.
Ahead, see photos of the many people who gathered to celebrate and honour the icon's life.