Here in Oklahoma City we love our celebrities as much as the next guy.  But, I think there comes a time when every human being, celebrity or no celebrity, deserves the dignity and respect that comes with dying.  I’ve been following the news reports on how the funerals for Farrah Fawcett and Michael Jackson are being handled.  I’m afraid there is quite a contrast between the two.  I might add an unfortunate one. 

A private funeral service for Farrah was held, yesterday, June 30^th, in Los Angeles.  Only her family and friends were in attendance.  She died with dignity and those who knew her well, like her long-time companion Ryan O’Neal and long-time friend Alana Stewart, made sure the service for her was dignified as well.  Very little was reported about the actual service.  What was shared was a quote from the eulogy that Stewart gave that said in part, “She’s the most beautiful angel in heaven”.  So appropriate!  Thankfully her only son, Redmond, was able to attend as well. 

I’m afraid the circus surrounding Michael Jackson’s death and funeral won’t be over too soon.  At first, it was reported that his body would be put on public display at Neverland in a glass coffin.  Fans are already camping out there in case that turns out to be true.  That was corrected later with a story about a public memorial being planned at a later date.  It seems Michael’s family is fueling these stories in the media.  I wish they shared the same common sense as Farrah’s family did.  Michael deserves some peace in death.  We can all mourn his passing but his family and friends should be allowed to do that in private, away from the glaring lights of the cameras.  Their private service for him is supposed to be held Sunday, July 3^rd.  I hope they keep it as private as possible. 

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