MaLinda Sapp funeral was filled with tears, shouts, songs, tributes, including performance by husband gospel star Marvin Sapp

GRAND RAPIDS -- Pastors, local officials and gospel music artists from throughout the country were on hand, amidst tears, shouts, songs, and tender tributes at the "Homegoing Service" for MaLinda Sapp on Thursday at Resurrection Life Church.

 

MaLinda Sapp, wife of gospel singer and local pastor Marvin Sapp, died last week after an 18-month struggle with colon cancer.
"This is a test of our faith," said Rev. Jesse Jackson, who was one of more than a dozen pastors and evangelists who spoke during the nearly 4-hour service.
"We are pained in the transition, but we rejoice in the destination," he told more than 2,000 mourners.
Several community leaders also spoke, including Grand Rapids Police Chief Kevin Belt and Grand Rapids Symphony Orchestra music director David Lockington. Marvin Sapp also performed part of his hit song "Here I Am," which MaLinda, on her death bed, called "her song."
Among gospel music artists who performed in tributes were Israel Houghton, Karen Clark Sheard and Donnie McClurkin.
Two of the Sapp's three children, Mikaila, 13, and Madisson, 11, read a poem "Footprints in the Sand."

Gospel star Marvin Sapp and his children pay tribute to wife Malinda