President Obama sends note for Rapper Heavy D funeral

John legend, Jayz , queen latifah, p.diddy, rosie perez

     Heavy D was remembered through laughter and tear at a funeral service Friday that included humorous anecdotes from longtime friend Diddy and words of encouragement for his young daughter, delivered in a letter from President barack obama

"We extend our heartfelt condolences at this difficult time. He will be remembered for his infectious optimism and many contributions to American music. Please know that you and your family will be in our thoughts and prayers," read the Obama note, according to the Rev.Al sharpton who quoted from it during the service.

    Xea Myers, Heavy D's 11-year-old daughter, also spoke briefly, and told the audience that her father was "still here, not in the flesh, but in the spirit."

  Grace Baptist Church was filled to capacity for the service; it was so crowded that an overflow area was set up. Among those in attendance were Usher, Queen Latifah, Don King, Q-Tip, John Legend and Rosie Perez.

Heavy D died last week in Los Angeles at the age of 44. His family said the death was due to complications from pneumonia.