Fisher, Reynolds lauded at memorial service

The public memorial was filled with love, laughter, and even an appearance by R2-D2! The mother-daughter icons died suddenly late a year ago, stunning the Hollywood community and their fans. Fisher’s mother Reynolds, who starred in such classics as Singin’ In The Rain, suffered a “severe” stroke a day after her daughter’s passing, and died on December 28. Arrangements for this memorial service were made by Todd Fisher, Reynolds’ son, who wanted to fulfill his mother’s wishes that the public, whom she loved, could remember her.

Dancers from Debbie Reynolds’ Dance Studio also performed a tribute to Singin’ In The Rain, as well as a montage of the pair being shown to the tune of James Blunt’s You’re handsome.

The attendees were treated to montages of photos from the women’s careers and intimate family snaps – accompanied by the music of “Star Wars” composer John Williams – as well as footage of Reynolds’s last performance, with Fisher and her daughter Billie Lourd.

Fisher’s former beau Aykroyd took the podium to recall their friendship. The British singer wrote a tribute song for Carrie that was played later during the service.

That finally happened yesterday, when a public memorial was held at the Hollywood Hills cemetery, where both have been buried.

Comedian Dan Aykroyd and actresses Rene Russo, Ann Blyth and Beverly D’Angelo were among the attending stars. It will be livestreamed on www.debbiereynolds.com.

On stage, he revealed that his mother always hated funerals, instead she liked to party. “You know, she’s a little like Carrie but she’s a lot like my mother, which means she’s going to be another Molly Brown”, he continued.

Two dresses that Reynolds wore on screen and her honorary Oscar were also on display.

Other stars attending included actor-producer-director Griffin Dunne, “Dallas” actress Morgan Brittany and “Brady Bunch” star Susan Olsen.

Carrie Fisher and Debbie Reynolds both passed on within a space of two days.

For the 1,200 people who managed to get a seat inside the hall, the ceremony was a part of Hollywood history.

Aykroyd, Fisher’s friend and one-time boyfriend, also paid tribute. The women died a day apart from one another in December.

Inside, there was an area set up featuring costumes from Fisher and Reynolds’ most iconic roles.

Stars including Meryl Streep, Tracey Ullman and Stephen Fry mourned the actresses at a private memorial in January.