Biz Markie will be laid to rest on Monday (August 2).
The late legend's family is set to host a celebration of life memorial service at the Patchogue Theatre for the Performing Arts in Patchogue, New York this afternoon. The legendary rapper's service will be live-streamed on BET starting at 2 p.m. ET, following a private viewing for the family that is scheduled for 11 a.m. ET, TMZ reports.
“Biz Markie touched the world with his infectious smile, amazing energy, and hip hop hits,” an announcement for the funeral read. “Known for his Top 40 hit, “Just A Friend” and his recurring role on “Yo Gabba Gabba!,” he brightened every room he was in and every song he was on.”
The Rev. Al Sharpton is set to deliver the eulogy and Biz's fellow hip-hop peers Fat Joe, Papoose, and LL Cool J will be in attendance.
Ahead of Monday's service, Rev. Sharpton tweeted, “I am honored to deliver the eulogy on Monday for Marcel Theo Hall – the legendary Biz Markie who touched the world with his infectious smile, amazing energy, and hip hop hits."
Biz — known for his 1989 hit "Just a Friend" — passed away in a Baltimore hospital on July 16 after a "series of complications from diabetes that he's been fighting for more than a year."
“It is with profound sadness that we announce, this evening, with his wife Tara by his side, hip hop pioneer Biz Markie peacefully passed away,” Biz's rep, Jenni Izumi, said in a statement, per Variety. “We are grateful for the many calls and prayers of support that we have received during this difficult time. Biz created a legacy of artistry that will forever be celebrated by his industry peers and his beloved fans whose lives he was able to touch through music, spanning over 35 years. He leaves behind a wife, many family members and close friends who will miss his vibrant personality, constant jokes and frequent banter. We respectfully request privacy for his family as they mourn their loved one.”