RALEIGH — Local broadcasting legend Fred Fletcher was laid to rest Wednesday. Family and friends gathered to remember his sense of humor, his impact on the city of Raleigh, and most of all, his love for others.

The funeral was filled with laughter, tears, love and admiration.

The service began with music requested by Fletcher. "Redwing" was the theme song of his WRAL morning radio program, "Tempis Fugit," in the '40s and '50s.

"He had the great ability to entertain, and he said in his book, 'I saw myself as an entertainer and someone who loved people.' Is that ever true," said former WRAL-TV broadcaster Charlie Gaddy.

Fred Fletcher, who died last week at the age of 89, was the son of Capitol Broadcasting Company founder A.J. Fletcher.

Many say it was Fred Fletcher's record of community service that helped WRAL earn a license to broadcast on television in 1956.

In Fred Fletcher's memory, you can help a community-oriented young person by sending a donation to: Parks and RecreationAttention: Fred Fletcher FundP.O. Box 590Raleigh, N.C. 27602