Family of rapper 'Big Pokey' hold celebration of life at City Hall on Sunday

HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) -- A celebration of life was held on Sunday evening to honor the Houston rap legend Big Pokey who died last week.

Loved ones, family friends, and fans came to Houston's City Hall to sing, pray and remember an influential member of The Screwed Up Click.

Several fans spoke highly of him, calling him a "family man" and a "gentle giant."

RELATED: Houston rapper 'Big Pokey' dies after collapsing in Beaumont, officials say

Also in attendance was fellow Screwed Up Click member Lil' Keke, who was good friends with Big Pokey.

"He died doing what he loved, " he said.

Food trucks and a presentation honored the life of one of the most influential members of the Houston rap community during the celebration.

But the party did not stop there. In Yellowstone Park in Houston's southside, low and slow slabs were seen riding in the streets, blasting the music of the beloved rapper, giving him his accolades.

"He loved the southside, and the southside loved him back," one fan said.

Big Pokey died on June 18 in Beaumont, Texas, after collapsing on stage at a bar. He was scheduled to perform at Pour09 Bar & Rooftop in as a special guest for a Juneteenth celebration.

He performed in Baytown, Texas, in front of fans on the same day.

Since then, an outpour of support for the longtime rapper has been seen.

"Thank you all for your patience during this trying time. Due to an overwhelming response, the family of Big Pokey has joined with the City of Houston to host today's event," an email regarding the event said.

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