People Features
Exclusive: Michael Jackson's Memorial Service Program, photographs and words
By April MacIntyre Jul 11, 2009, 4:02 GMT
Monsters received a Memorial Program from Tito Jackson. US pop star Michael Jackson addresses to media during a press conference at the O2 Arena, 05 March 2009, in London, Britain. According to media reports 10 July 2009 the head of Los Angeles police, William Bratton, has refused to rule out murder in the investigation into the death of singer Michael Jackson on 25 June 2009. The police are still awaiting toxicology results. EPA/STR
Tito Jackson has released a copy of the special Michael Jackson Memorial Program that was given to the invited guests at the Staples Center to Monsters and Critics.
Inside the book are the heartfelt remembrances of Michael's family, excerpted here along with scanned pages of the book.
Tito wanted to share this with Michael's fans all over the world:
“Starting out in Gary, we were brothers who enjoyed music; we had no idea of what was to come.
My memories of us as a family? Michael running through the house – no one could catch Michael; he was always fast on his feet. I watched as we moved from Gary to Los Angeles, from singing in clubs to filling stadiums. My brother Michael was always pushing it to the sky, as far as it could go. Michael put his heart and soul into his music, his family and into his work of always helping others. My brother developed a shoe that was resistant to gravity. What a man! Michael gave so much to the world; people didn’t understand his pain when the world started taking it back. He built a home that would provide a place where children who were ill and paralyzed could come find peace, enjoy the outside air and watch movies.
My brother is in the Guinness Book of World Records for giving large portions of donations to numerous charities. He gave and he never thought twice. I watched the light in Michael’s eyes fade as faced trials and tribulations for being misunderstood. Michael kept going with a smile and a grace of simply keeping what he stands for and believes in. Michael has left me and my brothers a legacy, a part of us being a part of history. I am proud to be his big brother; I am proud to have watched his talent succeed above all!
I love him. Michael is with me always. We will carry the light and make the light shine again for Michael and the world. - Tito
“I have lost my best friend…lost my best man at my wedding…my daughter has lost her Godfather. The Brando’s have lost a special family member and our hearts are numb and broken. I will never be the same but know, in my heart and for the world, his legacy will live forever. With all my love, Miko and the Brando Family.
Acknowledgment
Perhaps you sent a lovely card
Or sat quietly in a chair;
Perhaps you sent a beautiful spray
If so, we saw it there;
Perhaps you spoke the kindest words
As any friend could say;
Perhaps you were not there at all’
Just thought of us that day.
Whatever you did to console our hearts
In your special way,
May God’s blessings be yours from day to day.
THANK YOU FROM THE JACKSON FAMILY
Art director Harrison Funk with program coordinator Janice L. Smith and Design and Consultant art direction from David Costa and Producer Tom Bennett brought the Jackson program to life.
“I love you uncle Michael, we will always miss you. Love, Jermajesty
“I will always cherish the moments I shared with you, uncle Michael. You were a wonderful human being. You touched many hearts in the world. Forever Love, Randy Jr. [sic]
“Someone very special has left me. My Uncle was so beautiful. His thrill in life was to make you happy. Some of the most unforgettable moments in my life were spent with him, imagining we could fly, watching Disney films or traveling to distant lands. I’d like to express my undying gratitude for the most magical moments of my life, My Wedding Day! I will love him and miss him forever, Stacy. [Sic]
“Such a precious soul who touched so many. We love you Uncle Michael. Forever in our Hearts, Brandi [sic]
“Mr. Jackson, being your personal assistant for the past two years has not been a job but a phenomenal and empowering experience. Words are too simple to express my most humble gratitude for being blessed to talk, work, and to just be in your presence daily. You were more than my employer you were my mentor and friend. I will forever honor your legacy by fulfilling our promise. You will always live in my heart. Your Friend, Brother (Michael Amir) [sic]
“Even though you’re not here in the physical, it’s comforting to know that you’re here in spirit. I love and miss you. Your nephew, Jaimy Jackson [sic]
“Through your gift of song, you expressed love, peace, and joy, which will forever play in the rhythm of our hearts. I love you, and I thank you. Jermaine Jackson II [sic]
“Uncle Michael, in the short time we got to walk, you left the impression of love, passion and compassion for the ones who can’t, or have not been blessed. Patience and Love even though the ignorance of the world. I saw you stand alone, as one man, a father, loving heart open to your family and the world. I say one man because you were, and always will be, my uncle, my loving uncle and true definition of a man. Always Loving You, always…Until we meet again! May your Soul finally rest on this Journey. Siggy! Rubba 07/01/09
