Celine Dion demonstrates bravery and dignity as she speaks out for the very first time since the tragic death of her husband and manager Rene Angelil in January. Her speech took place at Caesars Palace and was heard by a large crowd of friends, family and fans. 

Celine Dion and Rene AngelilCeline Dion honoured Rene Angelil in moving speech

Yesterday (February 3rd 2016), the life of Rene Angelil was honoured in a memorial at The Colosseum, Caesars Palace in Las Vegas. While she didn't sing, wife Celine Dion still gave a breathtakingly loving and heart-breaking tribute speech where she praised the attendees for their arrival and reflected on the love and support that Angelil had given her over the course of her career.

'I was never part of any of the meetings that he had where he had to say yes or no. He protected me from Day 1 to for the rest of my life, I am pretty sure of that', she explained, her emotions running high. 'René never hated anyone. Is it possible someone loves everybody? I don't think so. But he never told me a person he disliked. Time was precious to him. He loved life so much, so very much.'

Angelil passed away at the age of 73 after struggling with cancer for some time. He left behind six children - including three with Dion - and seven grandchildren as well as his wife.

While Dion didn't sing at the memorial, a friend of the couple David Foster provided a musical tribute in the form of a cover of Dion's 'The Color of My Love'; a song released in 1993 that was also used as their wedding song the following year.

Angelil's funeral took place on January 22nd but this is the first time Dion has publicly opened up about her loss; that's apart from the open letter she unveiled on Friday, thanking her fans for their kindness. 'My family and I are deeply touched by the outpouring of love and support from so many people who have touched our lives during these past few days', her letter read. We have felt your love for René, and your prayers and compassion have helped us during this most difficult time. more 'than you'll ever know. I thank you from the bottom of my heart.'

More: Celine Dion thanks fans in open letter