MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — A cousin of Prince says family members and close friends gathered Friday in Minneapolis to say goodbye to the musician and remember his life.
Prince died April 21 of an accidental drug overdose. He was 57.
Cousin Chazz Smith told KARE-TV that Friday’s service was held at a Minneapolis church. Another private service is planned for Saturday at Paisley Park.
Smith says the last few months have been hard. He says the family is doing its best to preserve Prince’s image as others have come forward with false stories about the superstar.
Smith said he’s proud to be Prince’s cousin, and he hopes his death from a fentanyl overdose will help others struggling with painkillers.
A public tribute for Prince is scheduled for October at U.S. Bank Stadium in Minneapolis.
