In an exclusive letter to KLFY's Darla Montgomery, Darnell Prejean describes his experience as a pallbearer for the late great Aretha Franklin.

Prejean, a 1987 graduate of Northside High School, wrote to the News Ten anchor telling her what an honor it was to be serving the Queen of Soul:

Hey Darla, it's Darnell Prejean

I'm honored to be here in Detroit, Michigan at the Charles H. Wright museum where the queen of soul, Aretha Franklin is lying in state.

I'm honored to be here and so grateful to the Swanson family whom I've had a 30-year relationship with, who have welcomed me to have this opportunity.

It's overwhelming to have such an up close and personal experience in the couple of days I've been here.

I'm looking forward to being here for the next 4 days to pay tribute to a woman who has meant so much to so many people.

I just want to say hello to my family and friends and my Northside High School Vikings family and I look forward to sharing all of my memories and memorabilia with all of you guys.

Prejean was also praised by classmates who were proud to hear the news of their fellow alum serving as a pallbearer for Franklin.

The remains of Aretha Franklin are currently at the Charles H. Wright Museum of African-American History in Detroit where fans will be able to publicly view the late Queen of Soul. Franklin's funeral will be held Friday at Greater Grace Temple.

Hats off to Prejean. Do us proud as we salute you from your hometown of Lafayette.

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