Ali remembered globally and locally

An icon was remembered Friday in Louisville, Kentucky with a special memorial service for Muhammad Ali.

The service was planned years ago by Ali himself, to make sure his fans could be a part of it, and that was exactly the case.

They lined the streets to witness the procession and filled the arena where the memorial service was held.

Among those carrying his casket were actor Will Smith and boxer Mike Tyson.

Among those who spoke were former President Bill Clinton and comedian Billy Crystal.

But boxing was just one aspect of his legacy.

Ali was a powerful force in the fight against racism, war, and religious intolerance.

Local activist Dr. James Tucker called him a mentor.

“He was a conscious black leader. He knew his history, he knew his past, he was a very religious person. He stood up for what he believed in,” said Tucker.

Tucker says Ali taught him to be a better man, and he hopes his legacy allows him to remain a role model for future generations.

“He took action by giving back to the community, by donating his money to the community, and helping people that needed help. And we need more people like him today, because we have too many celebrities, too many athletes, that are not doing enough for the community,” said Tucker.

“The rich and powerful were drawn to him, but he was drawn to the poor and the forgotten,” said Ali’s widow at the service Friday.

Following the service, Ali was buried in a private ceremony at a Louisville cemetery.

It was the only private portion of a three day celebration of his life.