MJ memorial

There was a private family service on July 7 at Forest Lawn - Hollywood Hills Cemetery in Los Angeles, followed by a public memorial at the Staples Center, where Jackson had rehearsed on June 23, two days before he died. The service was broadcast live around the world, believed to have been watched by up to one billion people.

Jackson's solid-bronze casket, plated with 14-karat gold and lined with blue velvet, was placed in front of the stage. His brothers each wore a single, white, sparkling glove, while Stevie Wonder, Lionel Richie, Jermaine Jackson and others sang his songs. Berry Gordy and Smokey Robinson both spoke, and Queen Latifah read, "We had him," a poem written for Jackson by Maya Angelou at the request of Katherine Jackson. "Sing our songs among the stars and walk our dances across the face of the moon/In the instant that Michael is gone, we know nothing." The Reverend Al Sharpton won a standing ovation for a rousing eulogy, and Jackson's 11-year-old daughter, Paris, broke down as she told the crowd, "Ever since I was born, Daddy has been the best father you could ever imagine ..." Marlon Jackson said, "Maybe now, Michael, they will leave you alone."