After Aretha Franklin’s will ruling, rewatch a touching celebration of her life from 2018

A jury this week ruled that a document found in Franklin’s couch was a valid will, a decision that came nearly 5 years after a celebration of her life that featured celebrities, dignitaries.

Keith Dunlap, Digital Content Team, Graham Media Group

Published: July 13, 2023 at 8:25 AMUpdated: July 13, 2023 at 12:14 PM

With news this week that a jury decided a document found in Aretha Franklin’s couch was a valid will, it brought back to mind the unforgettable tribute paid to the “Queen of Soul” at her funeral nearly five years ago.

This happened in 2018 and is part of a series where we are looking back at most watched viral videos.

A sea of pink Cadillacs, a stirring rendition of “Amazing Grace” by Jennifer Hudson, and a packed church filled with celebrities and dignitaries were just a few highlights of the celebration of Franklin’s life, which led to viral videos with millions of views that can be seen below.

On Aug. 31, 2018, thousands packed the Greater Grace Temple in Detroit to honor Franklin, who passed away on Aug. 16, 2018 after a battle with pancreatic cancer.

Watch the videos above to reflect back on when the world said goodbye to such an entertainment icon.

Graham Media Group 2023

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After Aretha Franklin’s will ruling, rewatch a touching celebration of her life from 2018

A jury this week ruled that a document found in Franklin’s couch was a valid will, a decision that came nearly 5 years after a celebration of her life that featured celebrities, dignitaries.

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