MOURNERS GATHER FOR HUDSON PRIVATE FUNERAL

// November 4th, 2008 // Hott News

in loving memory

Fantasia Barrino says, “Such obvious pain. So much outpouring of love.”

By John Charles Reedburg

This is such a tragic ordeal. But at least, friends and love ones are there for support.

Over 200 people mourned with JENNIFER HUDSON Monday at the Apostolic Church of God in Chicago as her mother, brother and nephew were laid to rest.

When the three-hour service concluded, a horse-drawn carriage led the procession to the Oak Woods Cemetery, where Hudson’s family was buried. According to E! News, Oprah Winfrey, Usher, Queen Latifah, Patti LaBelle and other well-known names came to offer Hudson their condolences. Former Idol Fantasia Barrino even sang the gospel classic “Your Grace and Mercy,” which she dedicated to “my family,” the Hudsons.

Hudson understandably took time to say goodbye to each of her relatives, stopping to kiss her mother during the service.

The Rev. Jesse Jackson and Chicago Mayor Richard Daley were also reportedly on hand, to show support and deliver eulogies and scripture readings.

“Such obvious pain. So much outpouring of love. People’s support — Fantasia and others were there just to show love and support,” Rev. Jesse Jackson told reporters after the ceremony.

When the three-hour service concluded, a horse-drawn carriage led the procession to the Oak Woods Cemetery, where Hudson’s family was buried.

Hudson’s mother Darnell Donerson, 57; brother Jason Hudson, 29; and nephew Julian all died of multiple gunshot wounds last month.

The investigation into the shootings is ongoing, but William Balfour, Julian’s father, remains in custody and has been named a person of interest.