Thousands attend funeral as Jackson buried without brain

Jackson died from an apparent coronary on June 25, and while his body was released to the family the following day his brain was not. And the organ may not be returned for several weeks as examiners wait for it to "harden" before they can conduct tests.

Forensic neuropathologists will slice the brain into thin segments to see if the pop icon had suffered from any diseases or engaged in drug or alcohol abuse. A spokesman for the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health said, "The redacted death certificate is now available for purchase from the Department of Public Health,” and said applications could be made at the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health in North Figueroa Street, Los Angeles.

Thousands turned out for the memorial service at the Staples Center where the singer had been rehearsing for his scheduled concerts in London prior to his death. Earlier in the day the family had attended a private ceremony. But the main event drew the strongest interest with saturation coverage on television networks and fans trying to get a glimpse of the singer’s golden coffin.

Hundreds also gathered outside the singer’s home at Neverland but were somewhat outnumbered by media and vendors selling T-shirts. One attendee described the spectacle as being "more like a circus than a funeral." As the media circus packed its bags, the real circus, that of the Barnum and Bailey Circus was unpacking at the Staples Center for a performance due to start Wednesday.

The final resting place for the pop icon has still not been decided with family members seeking permission to have him buried at Neverland, Michael Jackson’s home for the last 21 years.