David Bowie's Family Announces Plans for Private Ceremony in Celebration of His Life

Late singer will be celebrated by close friends and family

There has been a lot of speculation surrounding a large, public service in dedication to David Bowie after his passing earlier this week, but his family just released a statement saying they are planning to hold a private ceremony.

They took to Facebook, writing: "The family of David Bowie is currently making arrangements for a private ceremony celebrating the memory of their beloved husband, father and friend. They ask once again that their privacy be respected at this most sensitive of times."

THANK YOUThe family of David Bowie is currently making arrangements for a private ceremony celebrating the memory of...

Posted by David Bowie on Thursday, January 14, 2016

The statement continued, "We are overwhelmed by and grateful for the love and support shown throughout the world.  However, it is important to note that while the concerts and tributes planned for the coming weeks are all welcome, none are official memorials organized or endorsed by the family."

Despite their decision to hold a private service, they encourage fans and anyone else touched by him and his music to celebrate in their own way.

"Just as each and every one of us found something unique in David's music, we welcome everyone's celebration of his life as they see fit," the post concludes.

Bowie's death was also announced on Facebook. A post on Sunday, Jan. 10—two days after his 69th birthday—read: "David Bowie died peacefully today surrounded by his family after a courageous 18 month battle with cancer. While many of you will share in this loss, we ask that you respect the family's privacy during their time of grief."

Bowie is survived by two children, Duncan Jones—who spoke out earlier this week—and Alexandria "Lexi" Zahra Jones, as well as his wife Iman, whom he had been married to since April 24, 1992.

Though not related by blood, several celebrities—including Nicole Kidman, Christie Brinkley and more—felt incredibly connected to the late singer, paying their respects after his death and recalling the ways in which he touched their lives