Fans, Family Gather To Remember ‘Unforgettable’ Natalie Cole
Funeral services dubbed “A Celebration of Natalie Cole’s Life” took place today at West Angeles Church of God in Christ cathedral in South Los Angeles. The Grammy-winning singer, who died on New Year's Eve at age 65, was the daughter of legendary crooner Nat King Cole and Maria Hawkins Cole. She died of congestive heart failure after enduring years of health issues following a 2009 kidney transplant.
Natalie’s son Robbie Yancy, a musician who toured with his mother, spoke at her funeral. His father, Marvin Yancy, was a songwriter and producer for Natalie. He was also an ordained Baptist minister who converted Natalie from being an Episcopalian, and died in 1985 of a heart attack at age 34.
Smokey Robinson performed at the memorial for Natalie, who was to be buried alongside her parents and other family members at Forest Lawn Memorial Park in Glendale, Calif.
The immortal Stevie Wonder performed for Natalie, who sold more than 30 million albums and won nine Grammy Awards.
Lionel Richie also performed. Natalie’s 1991 album “Unforgettable … With Love” saw her perform “duets” with her late father by adding her voice to his recordings. It sold more than 6 million copies and won six Grammys, including album of the year.
