The life and career of Heavy D (Dwight Errington Myers) was remembered amid laughter and tears at his private funeral in Mount Vernon, N.Y., on Friday (Nov. 18). The star-studded memorial at Grace Baptist Church drew several invited celebrities including Diddy, Andre Herrell, Usher, Queen Latifah, Jay-Z, Will Smith and Pete Rock, as well as friends and family.

During the 2 1/2-hour service, anecdotes were shared and inspiring messages were spoken by the late rapper’s family. A letter from President Barack Obama and first lady Michelle Obama was also read at the event. “We extend our heartfelt condolences at this difficult time. He will be remembered for his infectious optimism and many contributions to American music. Please know that you and your family will be in our thoughts and prayers,” read the note as quoted by the Rev. Al Sharpton.

Xea Myers, Heavy D’s 11-year-old daughter, also spoke at the service.”He was just amazing,” she told mourners, according to the Journal News. “That’s why we’re all here today. To celebrate his love and passion.”

Diddy brought levity to the service with his anecdotal stories about Heavy D. He also thanked his parents, Clifford and Eulahlee Myers, for raising such an influential human being. “It’s clear why Heavy is such a beautiful and respected person, ’cause of his family and the way he was raised,” he said. “Coming up, I remember how proud I was knowing I was from the same town as Heavy D.”

The service also featured inspirational performances from singers Kim Burrell (‘Trust in God’), Johnny Gill (‘Never Could’ve Made It’), Anthony Hamilton (‘A Change is Gonna Come’) and Yolanda Adams (‘Just a Prayer Away’). But Heav’s nieces, Sonte and Sage Myers, offered the most touching song as they sang ‘His Eye Is On the Sparrow,’ which received a standing ovation.

Heavy D’s silver casket was lay in front of the church surrounded by white calla lilies and a portrait of him to the right of the altar. After the funeral, six pall bearers carried out Heavy D’s body including Eddie “DJ Eddie F” Ferrell and cousin Pete Rock, and driven towards Ferncliff Cemetery in Hartsdale, N.Y., where his remains were buried.

Rest in Peace, Heavy D. You will be sorely missed.

Watch the ‘Heavy D Funeral in Mount Vernon’ Video

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