Ruby Dee's memorial service full of song and love

The late, great Ruby Dee was memorialized at New York City's Riverside Church

Sep 20, 2014

The late, great Ruby Dee was memorialized at New York City’s Riverside Church today. The remembrance of the civil rights activist and actress brought out poetry, song and dance from people honoring her memory.

Alicia Keys sang “Superwoman,” and Wynton Marsalis honored Dee with his trumpet playing. Notable people from different parts of her life attended, including former Mayor Davids Dinkins and beloved actress Phylicia Rashad.

Ruby Dee was an early media pioneer who earned lead roles in the theater and on the silver screen as well and was a leading lady in civil rights protesting apartheid in South Africa and speaking at the March on Washington.

Dee died June 11 at age 91.