Hank Aaron, a hero of baseball and of civil rights, is being buried in Atlanta Wednesday, drawing friends, family and sports luminaries to say farewell to the widely respected slugger and activist.
Aaron's wife, Billye, their family and friends gathered in church and online to celebrate the man that Friendship Baptist Church Pastor Richard W. Wills Sr. called "this iconic marvel from Mobile."
Aaron's grandchildren and his close friends spoke at the funeral service, as did MLB Commissioner Emeritus Bud Selig and former President Bill Clinton. Former President Jimmy Carter, veteran broadcaster Bob Costas and others delivered their remarks through online video.
Calling Aaron's entire life one long home run, Clinton added, "and now he has rounded the bases."
Aaron died last week at age 86, setting off a flood of tributes from fans and admirers. He was born into poverty and achieved greatness, starting his career in the Negro Leagues and finishing it in the Hall of Fame. He remains at the top of Major League Baseball's record books in two key categories: runs batted in and total bases.