Jerry Springer was celebrated at a memorial service today, which featured speeches by his loved one and others who knew him, following his death earlier this year.
It was announced some weeks ago that he had died aged 79 on April 27, with his passing said to have come just months after he was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer.
There was an outpouring of tributes and he was reportedly laid to rest in a private ceremony that was held in Chicago shortly after the news of his death was announced.
A memorial service has been held for Jerry today, paying tribute to the late broadcaster - who is best known for having fronted his eponymous talk show from 1991 to 2018.
His younger sister Evelyn Strauch was among the speakers, with her having described her late brother as "humorous, intelligent, compassionate and humble" in the service.
Evelyn recalled remarks he made in his final days, sharing that he'd said: "I've had a great life. I've done so many things that I've wanted to do. And I'm extremely grateful".
Other speakers included Jerry's only daughter Katie Springer, who is legally blind and deaf in one ear. She was born without nasal passages, a condition that was addressed through surgery after she was born.
She shared stories from her childhood with her ever supportive parents.
"We were always friends," she said.
"And because of my belief in reincarnation and soul pacts, I know we're all gonna see him again".
The memorial service was streamed on Jerry's website and on social media. It was also shown on an outdoor screen in Cincinnati, where he had once served as mayor.
The service - described as a 'celebration' - was led by the late radio host's friend Louis Beck. It featured speeches and archive footage, touching upon Jerry's life and career.
There was also a proclamation by Cincinnati's Vice Mayor, Jan-Michele Kearney. She declared June 9, 2023, as 'Jerry Springer Day' after having paid tribute to the him.
She said: "[He] was larger than life and through his humour, compassion, generosity and commitment to making the world a better place he brought joy and acceptance to everyone he met."
Jan-Michele further said about the late former Mayor: "In his adopted home of Cincinnati, he is beloved for his intellect, insight and ability to bring about positive change."
Jerry's death was announced earlier this year, prompting tributes from fans and those who knew him. His family paid tribute in a statement that was shared at the time.
They said: "Jerry's ability to connect with people was at the heart of his success in everything he tried whether that was politics, broadcasting or just joking with people on the street who wanted a photo or a word."
The statement, shared upon the news that he had died, continued: He's irreplaceable and his loss hurts immensely. But memories of his intellect, heart and humour will live on".
