Ronnie James Dio's L.A. Memorial Service to Be Picketed by Christian Extremists

MUSIC NEWS- Today's Los Angeles public memorial service for the recently decreased rocker Ronnie James Dio will be picketed by some members of the infamous Westboro Baptist Church. You may have heard of these people, as the Topeka, KS church has gotten attention (and too much press) for its intolerance of gays and its picketing of soldiers' funerals.

The church's website lists a picketing schedule and says protesters will be at the 2pm Dio memorial at Forest Lawn Hollywood Hills in L.A. because they feel that Dio worshipped Satan.  Dio died on May 16 after a battle with stomach cancer.

Dio, born Ronald James Padavona, was a heavy metal music legend and long the subject of devil-worship claims and an easy target.   He frequently used the "devil's horn" gesture.  He had said on many occasions that he was taught the sign by his superstitious Italian grandmother as a way to ward off the "evil eye."  But some extremist Christians have taken issue with the gesture, alleging that it is a tribute to the devil.

CNN quoted Ronnie's wife, Wendy as saying ; "Ronnie hates prejudice and violence. We need to turn the other cheek on these people that only know how to hate someone they didn't know,".

Though, if you are in the L.A. area, we suggest you attend the service and display silent, non-violent support for the talented Dio !!!

Wendy Dio said the memorial will have a donation center for her husband's "Stand Up and Shout Cancer Fund," named after one his songs.

UPDATE 5/31/10-  See AP news on the Ronnie James Dio memorial service.