Fans, Friends Remember Leon Russell At Tulsa Memorial Service

More than 1,000 people filled Tulsa's Mabee Center to remember legendary musician Leon Russell. 

He sang, wrote and produced some of rock and roll's top records. 

He died at his Tennessee home last week. 

Fans at his memorial service said his music was the soundtrack to their childhood.

Russell has left his mark on Tulsa and around the world. 

His star outside Cain's ballroom holds a little bit more significance.

Although he's gone, his music will live forever, and the words hold a painful truth now. 

Surrounded by hundreds of fans, Oklahoma native Leon Russell is back in Tulsa for the last time.

His casket topped with white flowers and his white hat.

"It's just so sad to think that he's not going to be around and this is our last Leon show," said fan Karen Sharp. 

Sharp has been a Leon Russell fan since her sister introduced her to his music back in 1972. 

Since then, they've traveled all around the United States to hear him play.

"It's just the music of my youth and it's continued it's just grown," Sharp said. 

At 17, Russell left Tulsa to pursue a dream, and for the last 50 plus year's he's lived that dream, dedicating his life to music. 

He dedicated his life to creating for his own records or sharing with someone else.

"We used to get upset because Leon didn't get the credit for writing it. But now we're excited that somebody is singing it," Sharp said. 

From that work, he's met thousands of people. 

Some who call themselves Leon Lifers. 

At this memorial, some shared a few tears and a few stories.

"Yes, I learned a lot from Leon we all did we all have, Leon inspired loyalty and dedication."

This memorial also served as a concert of sorts.

That one last show to give a world musical legend the sendoff he's earned.

"I love you for my life, you were a friend of mine," said Taylor Hanson. 

The City of Tulsa presented Russell's family with a proclamation which declared November 13 Leon Russell Day.