Lebanon Bids Farewell to Wadih al-Safi

Lebanon bid farewell Monday to the late legendary singer and music icon Wadih al-Safi whose mundane life was wrapped up after a remarkable and unforgettable journey.

Safi’s funeral convoy had wended its way through crowds along its way to the Saint George Cathedral in Beirut.

The funeral ceremony was officiated by Maronite Patriarch Bechara al-Rahi while the country’s top officials failed to show up, assigning instead their representatives to fill up for them.

"We realize the void that Wadih al-Safi will leave behind him and the deep wound his passing has caused in our hearts,” al-Rahi said in his sermon, stressing that the late prominent singer is unanimously labeled as “the grand master.”

Several ministers, lawmakers, military personnel, and numerous artists had also gathered to bid farewell to the legendary musician.

President Michel Sleiman granted al-Safi a First Grade golden Lebanese Order of Merit as he also asked the Telecommunications Ministry to issue a stamp honoring and commemorating the unforgettable music icon.

Afterwards, the funeral convoy headed to Safi’s hometown of Niha where he was laid to rest.