Friday, June 10, 2016

Muhammad Ali Laid to Rest: See the Funeral Photos


Muhammad Ali has been laid to rest in Louisville.


Days after the beloved ex-boxer died at the age of 74, thousands of fans and many celebrities gathered in Ali"s home town to say goodbye.


Here"s a rundown of notable names, events and photos from the sad proceedings:




1. A Famous Pallbearer


A famous pallbearer

Will Smith and former heavyweight champion Mike Tyson were among the pallbearers who loaded Ali’s casket into a hearse and took part in a 17-car processional that took the legendary boxer on a final journey around his hometown.



2. A Huge Gathering


A huge gathering

All across the route, mourners chanted, “Ali! Ali!” and helicopters buzzed overhead. An endless array of fans stood on the streets, many of them carrying signs and posters.



3. Signs of the Times


Signs of the times

Ali was buried at Cave Hill cemetery. Many people laid flower petals on the ground there, as the processional’s 19-mile route stopped at landmarks in the three-time heavyweight boxing champion’s life.



4. Those in Attendance Included:


Those in attendance included

Billy Crystal, Bill Clinton, Bryant Gumbel, Lennox Lewis and many other big names. President Obama sent along a message, but was in attendance at his daughter’s high school graduation.



5. A Community in Mourning


A community in mourning

The service took place at the KFC Center in Louisville and was open to the public; it was also live streamed and a private viewing will be held for family members.



6. A Message from His Daughter


A message from his daughter

“I personally have been sad for a long time,” Laila Ali said on Today this week. “My father has been struggling with Parkinson’s disease for many years and it wasn’t easy to watch him suffer, so knowing that he’s not suffering anymore is what gives me comfort.”


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