Diddley gets big sendoff at funeral

GAINESVILLE, Fla. (AP) — Bo Diddley’s funeral Saturday rocked with as much energy as his music.

For four hours, friends and relatives sang, danced and celebrated the life of the man who helped give birth to rock ‘n’ roll with a signature beat that influenced Buddy Holly, Elvis Presley, the Rolling Stones and many others.

As family members passed by the Rock and Roll Hall of Famer’s coffin, a gospel band played his namesake song. Within moments, the crowd of hundreds began clapping and shouting, “Hey, Bo Diddley!”

Diddley died of heart failure Monday at his home in nearby Archer.

Diddley, who was born Ellas Bates and became Ellas McDaniel when he took the last name of a cousin who raised him, was remembered for much more than his songs. Friends recounted his generosity, manifested in concerts for the homeless and work with youth groups and other charities; and the way he loved to talk to just about anybody he met.

Gainesville Mayor Pegeen Hanrahan referred to one of his most famous hits as she told the crowd, “When the question is asked, ‘Who do you love?,’ it’s you, Bo.”

Eric Burdon, leader of the rock group The Animals, attended the service, and flowers were sent from musicians including Jerry Lee Lewis, Tom Petty, George Thorogood and others.