Rivers’ funeral set as tributes roll in

Joan Rivers greets the audience at the 'Comedy Central Roast of Joan Rivers' in 2009 in Los Angeles.

Joan Rivers greets the audience at the 'Comedy Central Roast of Joan Rivers' in 2009 in Los Angeles.

Published Sep 5, 2014

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London - Joan Rivers' funeral will take place in New York this weekend.

The 81-year-old comedienne, who passed away on Thursday following surgical complications, will be laid to rest at Temple Emanu-El in Manhattan on Sunday, Us Weekly has confirmed.

Elizabeth Fezrine, a spokeswoman for the congregation, said details about the service - including the time and whether the public will be allowed to attend - are not yet known.

Joan's daughter Melissa announced on Thursday night her mother had died at lunch time following a week on life support at Mount Sinai hospital in New York.

Joan had been rushed via ambulance to the medical centre after she suffered a cardiac and respiratory arrest while undergoing a routine operation on her vocal cords at Yorkville Endoscopy clinic last Thursday.

The 'Fashion Police' host was placed in a medically-induced coma after the health scare, but showed signs of improvement on Wednesday when she was moved out of intensive care and into a private room at the hospital.

Yorkville Endoscopy clinic is now being investigated by the New York State Department of Health, spokesperson James O'Hara told CNN.

Meanwhile, Melissa, 46 - Joan's only child - has thanked fans for their continuous love and support.

She said in a statement: "Cooper [my son] and I have found ourselves humbled by the outpouring of love, support, and prayers we have received from around the world. They have been heard and appreciated."

Several celebrities took to social media to pay tribute to the legend.

Sharon wrote on her Twitter account: "We've lost a true legend today and an amazing woman - a pioneer. She opened up the arena for women in comedy.... (sic)."

'Pitch Perfect' actress Anna tweeted: "RIP Joan Rivers. Being publicly told that my dress is hideous will never feel quite as awesome. You will be truly missed."

Fellow comedienne Ellen added: "Joan Rivers will always be a pioneer. She paved the way for a lot of comedians. I'm very sad she's gone."

Singer Ariana posted: "rip Joan Rivers the MOST fabulous and hilarious. Frankie and I saw her live and met her multiple times together, we loved her so so much. Heartbreaking. Rest in peace Joan, u will be so missed!! (sic)."

'American Idol' host Ryan sent his condolences to Joan's family while recalling the "treat" he had bumping into her in the hallways of E! network's studio.

He tweeted: "She was trailblazing. Hysterical. Thoughtful. We'll miss you immensely Joan.

"It was a treat running into Joan in the hallways at E!...she was always on... always a riot. Our thoughts are w/ you & your family (sic)."

Whoopi reacted the news with a crying-faced emoticon, before sayinggoodbye to the comedy legend.

She wrote: "My friend Joan Rivers has passed away once again to quote Billy Crystal... There are no words. Bon Voyage Joan (sic)."

Lena Dunham also responded to the tragic news, tweeting: "Watching Joan Rivers do standup at age 81 was incredible: athletic, jaw-dropping, terrifying, essential. It never stopped. Neither will she."

Rumer Willis added: "I feel so blessed to have had the pleasure of chatting with Joan Rivers before she passed. What an incredible woman. Your humor and wit have changed lives. RIP (sic)."

'Keeping Up With the Kardashians' star Rob Kardashian posted a picture of him with Joan, which he accompanied with the caption: "This woman lived life to thee fullest!!! You will be missed Always! (sic)."

David Hasselhoff said: "Goodbye to the First Lady of comedy. A very sad day for the world. Love to Joan's family and deepest respects during this difficult time."

Dita Von Teese added: "Sad to hear of Joan Rivers' passing. A great lady. It was an honor to have a chance to spend a day with her once (sic)."

Sarah Michelle Gellar said: "I am so sad. May I live my life as full as Joan Rivers did. Today is a sad day, but I will try and laugh to honour her." - BANG Showbiz and IOL

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