Hollywood Funerals

If you're ever in Los Angeles and want to see some free entertainment from famous stars, look no further than a celebrity funeral.

A few months ago, I attended the funeral of Carl Anderson, who was not exactly a superstar (pun intended), but who attracted a number of famous celebrities and musicians including Stevie Wonder and Nancy Wilson among many others.

Today I happened to turn on the TV and the local NBC affiliate was broadcasting live coverage of Ray Charles' funeral here in Los Angeles. Mr. Charles passed away last week to little fanfare amongst the remembrances of President Reagan.

I missed the beginning of the Ray Charles funeral, but the hour I saw included appearances and performances by luminaries such as Willie Nelson (who sang a mournful version of "Georgia On My Mind"), Clint Eastwood, Glen Campbell (he sang a gospel song - I can't remember the name), Cicely Tyson, LA mayor James Hahn, LA Chief of Police William Bratton (ex-Chief of NY and Boston), the Reverend Jesse Jackson, Stevie Wonder (he's making a new career out of funeral gigs it seems), B.B. King (A boyhood friend of Ray Charles, B.B. was very emotional and weeped all through his speech and song tribute.), Wynton Marsalis (tears streaming down his face as he strolled through the audience playing "Just A Closer Walk With Thee" and "When The Saints Go Marching In" on his trumpet), Little Richard, and Johnny Mathis (who just completed a duet recording with Ray Charles of "Over The Rainbow", which was played to end the service).

After all the music, the remembrances, the laughter, and the tears, the casket was opened for viewing as the limousines lined up for the cortege to the cemetary. Although the camera was far back, there was little Ray nestled snuggly in his coffin with his glasses on. I think he was smiling too.

Two funny stories recounted in the service:

Willie Nelson recalled that he and Ray loved to play chess together whenever they were touring on the same bill. Ray was apparently a master at chess (go figure!) and Willie said he could never win against Ray. Finally Ray told Willie he would give him a break and play with the lights on for a change.

B.B. King said Ray also was an avid poker player and they used to play cards all the time. Again, Ray was such an excellent player the B.B. could never beat him. Eventually B.B. realized Ray had fixed the cards with some Braille code which helped him win!

So if you're hoping for some star-sightings or some heartfelt performances from world-class celebrities, just check out the obituary page of the LA Times. It's the best ticket in town!!