Remembering Big Pokey: Houston honors legendary rapper's life with celebration

HOUSTON - It's been a week since Houston lost one of its rap legends, Big Pokey. And on Sunday, residents were able to remember one of the Screwed & Chopped pioneers at City Hall. 

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"Respect for a legend, he’s part of the concrete that’s a part of what the city is," said local Marcus White. 

City leaders also joined family and friends to celebrate his life. 

"I’ve even learned what screwed and chopped is all about," said Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee. 

Big Pokey's best friend and Houston rapper, Lil Keke, is finding solace in the fact that Big Pokey died doing what he loved. 

The announcement of Big Pokey, whose real name is Milton Powell, and his passing was first shared via Instagram by fellow legendary Houston rapper, Bun B, who described him as, "low-key, humble mountain of a man who moved with honor and respect. He was easy to love and hard to hate." 

"LARGER THAN LIFE" Tributes pour in for legendary Houston rapper, Big Pokey

A day before the rapper, known for hits like "Sittin' Sideways," passed away, videos circulating online showing the rapper collapsing on stage during a Saturday night performance in Beaumont. He was 48. 

Big Pokey's cause of death has yet to be determined, but his legacy and dedication to Houston will live on. In fact, Mayor Sylvester Turner recently told FOX 26 he has plans to proclaim a "Big Pokey Day" in Houston but hasn’t yet selected a date, as of this writing. 

Public viewing will be held for "Big Pokey" this Friday at St. John's at 6 p.m.