Franklin’s funeral one for the ages

They laid Aretha Franklin to rest with a funeral fit for a Queen.

A week of tributes and public mourning – which included a massive concert, tributes from some of the nation’s most prominent public figures and four final, glorious outfit changes – ended with a day-long funeral Friday in Detroit, the vibrantly musical city that launched her career and remained her home for much of her life.

“The secret of her greatness was she took this massive talent and this perfect culture that raised her, and she decided to be the composer of her own life’s song,” former president Bill Clinton said. “And what a song it turned out to be.”

Franklin, who died Aug. 16 of pancreatic cancer at 76, inspired an eight-hour send-off that reflected the impact of her career.

“It took a little time to get in here, but I believe the Queen wouldn’t have had it any other way,” said Bishop Charles Ellis III of Greater Grace Temple, in his welcome to mourners about an hour after the expected 10 ET a.m. start time.

The Rev. Al Sharpton called Franklin a “civil rights activist and freedom fighter.” Former attorney general Eric Holder Jr. said her “status as a queen, unlike others who inherit a title... was earned.”

“She was classy enough to sing on the most prominent stages in the world,” said Bishop T.D. Jakes, “but she was homegirl enough to make potato salad and fry some chicken. In a class all by herself.”

Two other former presidents – Barack Obama and George W. Bush – sent remarks that were read. The mayor of Detroit announced that “one of her favourite places in the world,” Chene Park, would be renamed after Franklin.

The funeral for such a singular figure in American popular culture could have easily turned into a massive show-business production.

And while celebrities filled the pews and provided electrifying performances, the homegoing for Franklin was mostly a joyful church service, with gospel tributes, preaching and many opportunities to catch the Holy Spirit.

“If Ms. Franklin can dance on the stage, somebody ought to be able to dance in the church,” said Ellis. “We’re here to lift up this family. Put a smile on their face.”