Thousands attend Winans memorial

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DETROIT, April 16 (UPI) -- A memorial for David "Pop" Winans Sr. was held at Detroit's Perfecting Church, with the gospel music icon's son, the Rev. Marvin Winans, officiating.

David Winans died April 8 at the age of 74.

The Detroit Free Press said more than 2,000 people -- including Pop's wife, Delores, his 10 children, 23 grandchildren, Rep. Carolyn Cheeks Kilpatrick, D-Mich., Detroit City Councilwoman JoAnn Watson and O, the Oprah Magazine, editor-at-large Gayle King -- attended Tuesday night's service, celebrating the life of the beloved musician.

He was buried Wednesday.

"He was a father to me," the Free Press quoted gospel great Rev. Donnie McClurkin, who described himself as the "11th child," as saying during the memorial.

"Pop Winans was key to teaching men how to be real men, men of character," said McClurkin. "You had to live up to your responsibilities. You could not be late, your word had to be your bond."