Diana Ross has issued the following statement after missing Michael Jackson's memorial Tuesday at L.A.'s Staples Center:
"I am trying to find closure, I want you to know that even though I am not there at the Staples Center, I am there in my heart. I have decided to pause and be silent. This feels right for me. Michael was a personal love of mine, a treasured part of my world, part of the fabric of my life in a way that I can't seem to find words to express," her statement began.
CLICK HERE TO SEE PHOTOS FROM MICHAEL JACKSON'S MEMORIAL
In his will, Jackson named Ross as a backup guardian to his three children, Prince Michael, 12, Paris, 11, and Blanket, 7.
CLICK HERE FOR A TIMELINE AND VIDEO OF THE MEMORIAL
In her statement, Ross said, "Michael wanted me to be there for his children, and I will be there if ever they need me."
"I hope, today brings closure for all those who loved him," her statement concluded. "Thank you Katherine and Joe for sharing your son with the world and with me, I send my love an condolences to the Jackson family."
