A who's who of boxing champions and Detroit legends gathered at Greater Grace Temple on Tuesday to celebrate the life and mourn the passing of Emanuel Steward, who became famous as a trainer and owner of the Kronk Gym.
"I just love him. I mean, he was so special to me. He's been in my home. He's been with my kids, my wife. He's family," said five time world title holder Sugar Ray Leonard.
According to Jennifer Hammond of Fox 2 Detroit, Aretha Franklin provided a musical tribute, but it was six-time champ Thomas Hearns who provided the most emotional moment of the service when he broke down in tears at the pulpit.
Elected into the Boxing Hall of Fame in 1996, Steward lived and breathed the sport of boxing, but it was his common touch that made him the champion of champions.
