The funeral for British singer, Amy Winehouse, was held in London, England today, as the singer was found dead on Saturday, July 23, 2011, of a suspected drug overdose. Dozens of Winehouse's family and friends, came out to pay their respects and bid her farewell. 

Crowds gather outside the funeral

Winehouse's ex-husband, Blake Fielder-Civil, who publicly admitted he introduced the once healthy singer to heroin and crack-cocaine, marking a massive downward spiral in her life and career, was barred from the funeral by her family and denied permission to leave prison to attend.

Amy Winehouse's dad Mitch Winehouse

No official cause of death has been determined at this time, due to the autopsy being branded "inconclusive." Standard toxicology tests are underway, with the results expected in several weeks. Winehouse leaves behind an estate worth millions and numerous unreleased songs.

Amy Winehouse's family and friends

Her story should serve as a sobering reminder to many of the dangers of drug and alcohol abuse, as Winehouse had so much to live for, but due to not embracing the importance of remaining sober, lost her life. This really is a tragic waste of life, because as accomplished as she was in her chosen profession, there was still so much more she could have done over time, with the talents God gave her. Drug and alcohol abuse brought it to a halt.

Amy Winehouse's back-up singers

It is full time the entertainment industry started doing more to keep artists drug free. It is ridiculous the number of entertainers that have overdosed. The National Basketball Association in America has taken a proactive role in educating athletes on the dangers of fame and wealth. It's time the music, film and television industries in Britain and America do the same.

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