Ray J Releases Official Statement on Whitney Houston's Death

Singer Ray J is still in a state of mourning after the untimely death of “close friend” Whitney Houston

this past weekend. The “One Wish” singer released an official statement via his publicist where he says he is empty over the death of Houston.

“Over the past few days I’ve tried to process the emptiness that I am experiencing,” the singer said in his statement. “What my heart feels cannot be expressed in words. The world lost an icon but I lost my close friend.”

For years, rumors ran rampant about two singers sharing a romantic relationship, but both always maintatined that they were just friends. Ray J is expected to attend the “I Will Always Love You” singer’s invite-only funeral along with his sister R&B songstress Brandy. Houston’s funeral will be held tomorrow, Saturday February 18 at the late star’s home church New Hope Baptist Church in Newark, NJ.

Though the funeral is invite-only fans will be able to watch a live stream online at noon. Ray J closes his statement expressing his love for Houston calling her by her nickname. “Nippy I miss you so much, he added. “You were so happy and full of love. Your smile will live in my heart forever.” --Johnathan Cruse