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Whitney’s godmother Aretha was expected to attend and perform at the funeral on Feb. 18 but due to illness she’s unable to come — how sad!

Whitney Houston loved her godmother Aretha Franklin dearly and it only seemed fitting that she would be in the front row at Whitney’s funeral at New Hope Baptist Church in Newark, NJ., but CNN is reporting that she can’t make it.

Aretha had a performance the night before the funeral on Feb. 17 and was having some problems with her leg. We’ve told you before that Aretha has battled health issues for quite some time.

The New Hope Baptist Church is where Whitney grew up singing in the choir and her mother Cissy Houston was an active member at the church. The church is swarmed by fans outside and flowers and balloons cover the front steps of the church and wrap around the block.

— Chloe Melas

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3. Will Whitney Houston’s Funeral Cause Bobbi Kristina To Break Down Again?