*As we reported earlier, Roberta Flack, the beloved Grammy-winning singer celebrated for her soulful hits like “Killing Me Softly With His Song” and “The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face,” passed away on February 24, 2025, at the age of 88.
Her death came as a result of cardiac arrest while she was being transported to a Manhattan hospital. Flack’s passing followed a long battle with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), which had forced her to step back from performing in 2022.
Instead of a traditional funeral, her family has organized a public “Celebration of Life” memorial service, which took place on March 10, 2025, at the Abyssinian Baptist Church in Harlem, one of the oldest Black Baptist churches in the United States.
The event commenced at 4:00 PM EDT and was open to the public, with live-stream coverage available on her official website (www.RobertaFlack.com) and YouTube, allowing fans around the world to participate in honoring Flack’s extraordinary life and career.
ms. lauryn hill honoring roberta flack in nyc this evening at her celebration of life ? pic.twitter.com/YijOl0rxCY
— A.J. Thomas ?️✨ (@orangecloudz) March 10, 2025
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? Homage ?
Roberta Flack
February 10th, 1937 – February 24th, 2025?❤️?
“Remember: Always walk in the light. If you feel like you’re not walking in it, go find it. Love the Light.” – Roberta Flack pic.twitter.com/65apGpuGpp
— B Michael (@bmichaelAmerica) March 11, 2025
The memorial was marked by an array of notable performances and heartfelt tributes from artists who were inspired by her work. Notably, Lauryn Hill made a surprise appearance, collaborating with Wyclef Jean to cover some of Flack’s most iconic songs. The legendary Stevie Wonder also graced the event, performing on harmonica and piano, including a touching rendition of a song he wrote specifically for Flack, titled “I Can See the Sun in Late December.”
The service was further enriched by the eulogy delivered by Rev. Al Sharpton, who praised Flack as a musical force that “put a soundtrack to Black dignity.” Actor Phylicia Rashad also took the stage, reminiscing about Flack’s profound influence during her time at Howard University, where Flack’s music resonated deeply with students and faculty alike.
The celebration included choir performances of treasured hymns such as “Amazing Grace” and featured video highlights showcasing Flack’s illustrious career. These moments served to emphasize her lasting impact across multiple genres, including soul, jazz, and gospel, and highlighted why she remains a vital part of the American musical landscape.
As of now, details surrounding a private burial or specific location for Flack’s interment have not been disclosed, with the Find a Grave memorial indicating her burial details as “unknown.”
Commentary on social media platforms like X indicates that the memorial service attracted a considerable crowd. However, some attendees noted that the atmosphere felt more private compared to past high-profile funerals held at the church, likely due to the heightened security measures in place.
This focus on celebration rather than traditional mourning aligns perfectly with Flack’s vibrant public persona and the joy she brought to millions through her music.
Roberta Flack’s legacy, characterized by her unique ability to connect with audiences on an emotional level, will undoubtedly continue to resonate long after her passing. In celebrating her life and contributions, her fans, friends, and family reaffirm the powerful bond formed through music, reminding everyone just how integral she was to the soundtrack of their lives.
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