Comedian and civil rights leader Dick Gregory is being honored in D.C. and Maryland this weekend with a parade and memorial service that a long list of celebrities are expected to attend.
A memorial service was held at 4 p.m. Saturday at the City of Praise Family Ministries in Landover, Maryland.
Reena Evers-Everette, the daughter of slain Civil Rights activist Medgar Evers, said they gathered "to hear about the funny man, the straight man, who impacted our minds and impacted our hearts.''
A parade will be held 10:30 a.m. Sunday at The Howard Theatre, at 620 T St. NW in D.C. The procession will continue on to Ben’s Chili Bowl on U Street.
Gregory famously used humor to promote social justice and nutritional health.
His face is featured on the mural outside Ben’s Chili Bowl. He spoke at the unveiling ceremony for the mural in June, along with News4's late Jim Vance.
Gregory died at age 84 on Aug. 19.
Instead of flowers, the family has asked that people purchase a copy of Gregory’s book, “Defining Moments in Black History,” for family or friends. Gregory also has a foundation that accepts donations.
More information about Gregory’s memorial services can be found on the Dick Gregory Tribute website.
