Heartbroken Celine Dion has decided not to sing at her husband's funeral. A representative for the star has denied claims that Celine would perform a musical tribute to René Angélil, but told TMZ one or two of her songs might be played during the service.René passed away on 14 January at the age of 72 after a long battle with throat cancer. His funeral will be held on Friday 22 January at the Notre-Dame Basilica in Montreal – where he and Celine, 47, were married on 17 December 1994.
© Photo: Getty ImagesCeline Dion has confirmed she will not be singing at husband René Angélil's funeral
René's obituary read: "According to his final wishes, his funeral will be held at Notre-Dame Basilica in Montreal, where 21 years ago he chose to marry the one who will remain as the great love of his life, the artist for which he had the most respect, the woman who gave him light and happiness until his very last breath. "René was a highly-respected figure in Canada, and as such his funeral will be televised on three networks, and flags will fly at half-mast. A chapel of rest will also be open on Thursday, so that members of the public may pay their last respects.
© Photo: RexCeline and Rene pictured on their wedding day in December 1994
René had been battling throat cancer since 2013, and his loved ones have asked for donations to be made to a cancer charity. "The family invites all those who would like to make a contribution to make a donation to the Azar-Angelil Research Chair for ORL Cancer," the obituary continues.It's been a tremendously traumatic time for Celine. She lost her brother Daniel to cancer just two days after René died. The 59-year-old had battled throat, brain and tongue cancer and passed away on Montreal surrounded by his family.Celine, 47, and René have three children together; 14-year-old René and five-year-old twins Nelson and Eddy. The brave singer has confirmed that she will resume her Las Vegas performances on 23 February.
