Memorable Moments From Whitney Houston's Funeral

INSIDE EDITION reports on moments from Whitney Houston's funeral where family, friends, and celebrities gathered to pay their respects to the fallen star.

Many voices were heard at the funeral service for Whitney Houston, but even in death, hers was the most profound as her hit song, "I Will Always Love You" played during the service.

It was a day of unforgettable images. As the coffin was carried from the church, Whitney's boyfriend, Ray-J, reached out to touch it as his sister Brandy put a supportive hand on his back. And then, overwhelmed by grief, Ray-J collapsed in the pew.

And it couldn't be heard above Whitney's magical voice, but those close to her mom, Cissy Houston, say she was wailing the same two words as she was led from the church: "My baby! My baby!"

In a letter to Whitney published in the funeral program, her mom shared her premonition that her famous daughter, nicknamed "Nippy," would not be long for this world.

The letter read: "God said it's time Nippy; your work is done. The other day on February 11th he came for you. But not without warning. For two months now I have been depressed, crying, lonesome and sad not knowing why."

Kevin Costner's eulogy was the most touching moment from the funeral service, according to an INSIDE EDITION online poll, followed by Tyler Perry's eulogy and R. Kelly's performance.

Oprah Winfrey, accompanied by Tyler Perry and best friend Gayle King, was in tears as she left the church, and her sorrow inspired her to post a video message on Youtube.

"I woke up thinking about the home going celebration for Whitney and wondered if there was some way we could have all come together and celebrated her while she was alive," said Winfrey.

The stars were just plain people on that day. Mariah Carey wore sunglasses. Diane Sawyer was also there.

And a grieving Jordin Sparks looked a lifetime older than the young star who'll play Whitney's daughter in the upcoming film Sparkle, Whitney's last movie.

Perhaps Whitney's friend Kim Burrell put it best as she spoke after the final farewell to an American icon.

"Everything was so good. Everybody was sincere," said Burrell.