Whitney Houston’s Family Asks Newark To Cancel Memorial Plans

[Princess223]

Whitney Houston’s Family Asks Newark To Cancel Memorial Plans

February 14, 2012

Whitney Houston‘s memorial will reportedly not be taking place at the Prudential Center in Newark, N.J., because the Houston family has requested to not have one, according to Mayor Cory Booker (pictured). A Mayor Booker representative reportedly told TMZ:

“The Houston family has no plans to set up a public viewing at the Prudential Center this Friday.” This news comes as quite a surprise, because the city was reportedly planning a memorial for the mega-star in the 18,000-seat venue. All plans were put on hold, though, once the Houston family asked the city to not hold a public viewing for the icon.

The rep. continues:

“In compliance with the family’s wishes the city is not moving forward with any public ceremony.” At press time, the only ceremony that will be held is at New Hope Baptist Church in Newark on Saturday.

[jinxmom]

I understand b/c its got to be hard. [sigh] If they are breaking down now then having so public they probably just want to grieve privately. I pray the the Lord will comfort them and strengthen them through this.

[supermom664]

I totally understand

[krisdev67]

 I'm glad that they decided not to do it.  IMO they shouldn't feel pressured into having a public viewing anyway.  However, doing a public memorial like they did for MJ would be great, but only after they are able to get their bearings.

I think the difference between MJ's family is that MJ was such a huge force that they felt like they would be letting his fans down if they didn't do a memorial, also I think it gave them time to decide what they wanted to do with his remains because let's face it, you KNOW someone would have tried to dig up his body.

They need time to get their bearings and focus.  THEN make the decision on what THEY want to do for her.  I think having a private service at an unknown location and time is the best option.  But to plan a memorial service later (like the one they had for MJ) would be great.  Minus Whitney's body, cause let's face it, we all know that MJ was NOT in that casket at the memorial service. 

[Anayiah3]

Yea my mom was planning on attending it too but its totally understandable

[ksbondgirl]

 Fred Phelps' kin will show up.

[sdgd21]

I think it is a good thing for the family to do. 

[Dana267]

I completely understand.

[hopealways4019]

Too bad! Her fans won't have a chance to pay their final respect to her

[supermom664]

IMO you don't have to attend a funeral or memorial to show respect

Quoting hopealways4019:

Too bad! Her fans won't have a chance to pay their final respect to her

[Princess223]

Quoting ksbondgirl:

 Fred Phelps' kin will show up.

I bet U won't put no MONEY on that. What would be their reason for showin' up?