Michael Jackson Laid to Rest (Photos)

Michael Jackson was laid to rest yesterday in a star-studded funeral including guests Elizabeth Taylor, Jackson’s ex-wife Lisa Marie Presley, Barry Bonds and Macaulay Culkin.

The funeral at Glendale Memorial Park was simple but touching, according to one guest. The person, who asked not to be identified because of the sensitivity of the day, said Gladys Knight’s performance of the hymn “Our Father” (The Lord’s Prayer) soared in the vast mausoleum and moved many to tears. (TheStar.com)

Jackson’s backup dancers served as ushers. His brothers, wearing black armbands and a sequined glove on one hand, carried his flower-covered casket out of the hearse and placed it before about 200 mourners on a stage decorated with white lilies and white roses – part of a private, intimate gathering in contrast to the thousands who attended Jackson’s internationally telecast memorial service at Los Angeles’ Staples Center.(People.com)

Following the ceremony, the Jackson Family released a statement with their thanks to the pop star’s fans.

“The Jackson Family wishes to once again thank all of Michael’s fans around the world for their generous outpouring of support during this terribly difficult time,” the statement read. “Their expressions of love for Michael and his music have sustained the Jackson Family.”

Here are photos from the ceremony: