Nate Dogg Laid to Rest as Snoop Dogg, The Game, Warren G and Thousands More Gather for Funeral

Thousands of friends and fans joined with the rapper's family in bidding him farewell

It was a Dogg day.

Thousands of friends, fans and family gathered today at the Long Beach funeral of Nate Dogg to say goodbye to the late rap star. Fellow hip-hop heavyweights Snoop Dogg, Warren G and the Game were also in attendance.

The hours-long service was held at the Queen Mary Dome. Another evening event had been planned, but was canceled at the last minute. The public was able to get issued tickets on Friday through a telephone-request method.

Nate's cousin and musical collaborator Snoop posted a photo of his tattooed forearm on Twitter and Facebook, featuring Nate's face and the words "All Doggs go to Heaven" written beneath in remembrance.

"Sad day," tweeted Snoop, who delievered a eulogy at the service.

The Game, who changed his Twitter backround to a photo of Nate with the message "RIP Nate Dogg," hailed Snoop, "whose words uplifted the entire building. Right when I thought tears would fall, it turned into a joyous celebration."

He also offered a bit of rhyme: "Death leaves a heartache no one can heal, but remember that love leaves a memory no one can steal.

Nate Dogg died unexpectedly on March 15 at the age of 41 apparently due to complications from strokes sufferedin 2007 and 2008.

Snoop, Game and others have helped establish the Nate Dogg Memorial Trust with all proceeds going to the late hip-hop star's family.