August 14, 2008 15:36

Isaac Hayes' funeral details released as family thanks fans

Late soul man was about to begin work on a new album, his son says

The funeral of soul icon Isaac Hayes will be held this Monday (August 18), his family have said.

The singer was found dead on Sunday (August 10) at his Memphis home, after apparently suffering a stroke.

In a statement, the Hayes family said: "We have been overwhelmed with the outpouring of support and love from Isaac's dear friends, colleagues and fans from every corner of the world, and we thank each and every one of them for their kind thoughts and prayers.

"While he was an iconic figure to many, to us he was husband, father and friend. We will ever miss his love, wisdom, humour and the familiar comfort of his voice."

Hayes' son, music producer Ike Dirty, also paid tribute to his father. Speaking to Allhiphop.com, he revealed that the two were planning to start work on a new Isaac Hayes album shortly before his death.

"I spoke to my father just recently about working on his album," said Dirty. "He was excited as though this were his first project. I want people to remember my father for the creative, soulful, inspirational force that he was to music and African American people. He was legendary and shared his genius with the world.

"I also want to thank all of my peers and music industry colleagues who have reached out to express their love and prayers. I'm sad, I'm angry, I'm happy all at once right now. I have so many memories of being my father's son. Little things that make all the difference. Things that help me maintain right now. I can't be too sad though. My father did great, great things as a musician, humanitarian, a father and a black man."