Fans Flock To Newark To Remember Whitney Houston During Her Funeral
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While Whitney Houston's funeral in Newark, N.J. was private, that did not stop fans from gathering near the church on Saturday to remember the singer's life. NY1's Ruschell Boone filed the following report. It was an impromptu gathering at Babe's Restaurant in Newark, N.J. on Saturday, as Whitney Houston's fans watched her funeral in sadness. They came from all over the world for the music icon's final farewell, but could not get near the New Hope Baptist Church where the funeral service was held.
"It was kind of devastating that we couldn't get there, but we're here. We're here to support the family and we love her, so this is fine," said one fan.
"It's a sad thing. I mean, she's the soundtrack to my teenage and adult young life and it seems too soon," said a fan who came from Detroit.
That was also the sentiment among the fans who started to gather at 5 a.m. Saturday morning on the street by the church.
"I love Whitney. She's taken me through so many trials and tribulations as she went through hers. I went through my own personal struggles. Her music just helped to get me through," said a fan.
"This is the least I could do as a fan. I just to come and show my respects," said another.
Many left balloons, flowers and notes expressing their sorrow at the church before the street was closed off for the service.
Some were disappointed that they could not remain close to where the service was taking place, but many were happy just to be in the area.
"I was a bit sad but I wasn't extremely disappointed. I considered that her family has given her to the entire world all of her life and I consider this to be a very private moment. And we've all had grieving our lives and I can understand what they are going through," said a fan.
Some people sang Houston's music on the streets and talked about her incredible contributions to pop music and R&B.
Those who ended up at Babe's Restaurant were glued to the television for the entire service.
"It think it's a beautiful service. I really do," said a fan.
When it was over, many went home with a little music and sadness in their hearts.