Probers want Whitney Houston's medical records
NEWARK, N.J. -- Whitney Houston lived much of her life in public, but on Saturday, the singer's family and friends will remember her in private.
An intimate, invitation-only service is being planned at the 1,500-seat New Hope Baptist Church, where Houston first showcased her singing talents as a child.
"They have shared her for 30-something years with the city, with the state, with the world -- this is their time for their farewell," observes Carolyn Whigham, owner of the Whigham Funeral Home.
Houston died Saturday at the age of 48 in the Beverly Hilton. The investigation into her death continues. It's been reported she was discovered underwater in the bathtub of her hotel room. Police also found several prescription drugs in the room.
A determination of the cause of death is pending toxicology test results expected to take several weeks. In the meantime, investigators have requested all of Houston's medical records. They want to know why prescription drugs were inside her hotel room when she died. CBS Radio Correspondent Steve Futterman reports the coroner's office has subpoenaed records from Houston's doctors and pharmacies. The process began yesterday. The coroner emphasizes that this is strictly routine and done in countless other death investigations.
Complete Coverage: Whitney Houston dead at 48Mourning fans had hoped for a public memorial, but instead were left to pay tribute with flowers, balloons, and messages.
"It brought tears to my eyes," says Amanda Vieira, a student, "because, when you grow up here, you never expect she would be gone so soon."
The family requests any donations be sent to the Whitney Houston Academy of Creative and Performing Arts, the East Orange elementary school she attended. It was renamed in 1998 to give inspiration to a new generation.
Tia Holt, a fan, says, "I've always said to myself I want to be just like her, and I just want her to rest."
Houston's godmother, Aretha Franklin, offered her own tribute to singer at a concert in North Carolina, singing a Houston signature song, "I Will Always Love You." Franklin is expected to attend the funeral on Saturday.
New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie has ordered all state flags to fly at half-staff Saturday.
