Love pours out from Coco Lee family, fans and other stars

Renowned Hong Kong-American singer Coco Lee, who passed away on Wednesday, will be given a Buddhist funeral and a fan memorial service, her family announced.

Lee, 48, died at Queen Mary Hospital three days after she attempted suicide in the toilet of her sister's home at The Peak. She did not regain consciousness after the attempt.

In an interview with Sing Tao Daily yesterday, her elder sister Nancy said Lee was a positive person, and the main reason leading to her death was not an illness or work issue, but her marriage.

"She regarded her husband - who was 16 years older - as a father as she had lost her father. Her husband was a good father to his daughters, but not a father to her," she said.

She hoped the public would not believe in any online misinformation, including a "HK$1 billion legacy" or organ donation.

Nancy added that Lee's funeral could be held in August according to Buddhist rituals after an autopsy to determine the cause of her death.

Nancy said Lee was already brain-dead when she was rushed to hospital, but their 86-year-old mother insisted on saving her.

She added that they would conduct a memorial service for fans to bid farewell to their idol.

Just hours before she committed suicide on Sunday, Lee posted a voice message to her fan group on Weibo.

"I can feel your love and support for me, with you guys standing behind me, I will cheer up. And during this period of time, I hope you are all healthy and happy, I miss you all so much and I will try harder. Love you, love you," she said.

The screen recording of the message shared by her fan club gained 40 million views as of 6pm yesterday.

Some web users felt Lee was crying, with one commenting: "How could she still leave her cheerfulness to the world. Too cruel!"

Artists who had worked with Lee described her as a diva, a legend, and a friend who had always encouraged them.

Hong Kong actor and filmmaker Jackie Chan Kong-Sang described her as a born star, with incredible talent and unique style.

"Your voice, dance and bright smile have influenced countless people. You have brought so much to the world. Another star has appeared in the sky, and may there not be any suffering or pain. Rest in peace," he said.

Taiwanese filmmaker Ang Lee said he was shocked to learn about her sudden death, and recalled that he had an enjoyable working experience with her during the recording of the soundtrack for his film Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon.

He added that Lee had told him "I am the first Asian to sing at the Oscars, I must sing my heart out" before going onstage in 2001.

It is understood that her Canadian husband, businessman Bruce Rockowitz, rushed back to Hong Kong on Monday after learning of his wife's condition.

The couple had been separated for over a year and were preparing to divorce this month.

Rockowitz, along with Lee's two elder sisters Nancy and Carol, and her two stepdaughters Rachel and Sarah, issued an official obituary, praising Lee.

"She was an all-around singer-songwriter, a talented performer, a caring mentor to the younger generation, a loving wife, a beloved friend and a dear family member."

Details of the funeral will be announced soon.

stacy.shi@singtaonewscorp.com