Memorial Service Arranged For Kanye West's Mum

Kanye West's mother Donda will be remembered by family and friends in a memorial service today (November 16).

The service will take place at Chicago State University, where Donda - who died last weekend as a result of "complications during a surgical procedure" - worked as an English professor for 24 years.

Robyn Wheeler, director of University Relations, said: "She had a vibrant spirit and one that was nurturing and also supportive but nonetheless always challenging. We felt the service should reflect who she really was."

Kanye, who is in London, is not expected to attend the service today. Donda's funeral will be held in Oklahoma City next Tuesday (November 20).

Meanwhile, friends of the rapper have been lending him their support to help him through the difficult time.

Soul singer John Legend said he was "praying" for Kanye, adding: "Dr. West wasn't just the mother of a superstar. She was an accomplished, successful, beautiful woman in her own right.

"She raised and nurtured a brilliant son with the strength and resilience to follow his dreams and to turn tragedy to triumph. I pray that he continues to stay strong during these trying times."

US TV actress Holly Robinson Peete contributed: "She reminded me a lot of my mother. I had an instant connection with her. I'm going to miss her smile, I'm going to miss her integrity and I'm going to miss seeing Kanye and his mother together."