Memorial Service For Leon Russell Taking Place At Mabee Center

ORU’s Mabee Center is holding a public memorial for late musician Leon Russell.

The service will take place Sunday, November 20 at 2:00 p.m. but doors will open at 1:00 p.m.

The Mabee Center is located at 7777 South Lewis Avenue. Details of the service have not been released.

This service will take place after a private funeral in Tennessee November 18.

They ask that, in lieu of flowers, donations be made to PWNA (Partnership with Native Americans, Music Cares or ASPCA (American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty of Animals).

Russell died in Nashville at the age of 74. According to his Facebook page, Russell’s wife said he died in his sleep.

11/13/2016 Related Story: Leon Russell Dies At Age 74

Upon hearing of his death, fans turned to Russell’s old recording studio, The Church Studio on 3rd Street near downtown. Pictures, flowers and messages were left on the steps in honor of the late musician.

11/13/2016 Related Story: Oklahomans Pay Tribute To Rock Legend Leon Russell

Russell had a heart attack earlier this year and had bypass surgery.

Russell’s nearly 60-year career has spanned recording some of the great 1960s music as a Hollywood session musician to his own “superstar” status beginning in the 1970s, to recording and touring with Elton John in this decade.