Legendary NY Rapper Heavy D Remembered At Funeral In Mount Vernon
MOUNT VERNON, N.Y. (CBSNewYork/AP) -- Heavy D was remembered today at his funeral at Grace Baptist Church in Mount Vernon.
The spiritual and musical tribute attracted celebrities including Will Smith, Samuel Jackson, Queen LAtifa, Jay Z, Lil' Kim, Sean Diddy Combs, and Don King.
"So, Heavy D's life is a living testimony of saying, 'Yes I can' when everybody else says 'No, you can't'," King said.
Heavy D, or Hev, to his fans, died of pneumonia in Los Angeles 10 days ago. He is survived by a daughter.
Actor Delroy Lindo says the service celebrated the joy of a life cut short.
"A lot of love, a lot of celebration and a profound appreciation for what this young man did in his life," he said.
Heavy D was born Dwight Myers in Jamaica, one of six children. He grew up in Mount Vernon and turned his love of music into a career.
He had a larger-than-life talent that had wide appeal, and uplifted the spirit of those who knew him in Mt. Vernon, where fans lined the street near the church.
"Loved him. Very nice person. Sweet too, always had kind word to say to you," said fan Laurie Kelley.
Heavy D helped other entertainers come along, like R&B performer, Usher.
"I was greeted by Hev. I remember his pulling me, get up to the mike, man," Usher said.
It's said that unlike many rappers, Heavy D's faith gave his music a positive note. Dwight Myers was 44.
The Rev. Al Sharpton delivered a message for Heavy D's young daughter, which he said was directly from President Obama.
The note for 11-year-old Xea Myers offered words of encouragement. She also spoke, and told the packed church that her father was "still here, not in the flesh, but in the spirit."
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