Family and friends of Joan Rivers are preparing to bid farewell to the comedienne today (Sunday 7th) during a private funeral service held at a Jewish temple in Manhattan. The 81 year old passed away peacefully in hospital on Thursday (September 5th), a week after she went into cardiac arrest following a procedure at a local New York clinic.

Joan RiversJoan Rivers passed away on Thursday, September 5th

In a statement to ABC News Rabbi Joshua M. Davidson said, “It is a terribly sad day for all of us, we mourn with her family, friends and all those millions to whom she brought laughter and joy.”

At the service, thought to be beginning at 11am ET, the New York Daily News reports that a red carpet will be rolled out at the synagogue’s entrance. They also report that actor Hugh Jackman will be in attendance and will “close out the private service” while six-time Tony winner Audra McDonald will perform a song.

More: Joan Rivers Taken Off Life Support And Passes Away Aged 81

The news of River’s death was announced on Thursday by her only child, daughter Melissa, who said in a statement, “It is with great sadness that I announce the death of my mother. She passed peacefully at 1:17 p.m. surrounded by family and close friends. My son and I would like to thank the doctors, nurses, and staff of Mount Sinai Hospital for the amazing care they provided for my mother.”

"Cooper and I have found ourselves humbled by the outpouring of love, support, and prayers we have received from around the world. They have been heard and appreciated. My mother's greatest joy in life was to make people laugh. Although that is difficult to do right now, I know her final wish would be that we return to laughing soon," she continued.

More: Joan Rivers To Have A Private Funeral

Yorkville Endoscopy, the clinic where Rivers was being treated as an outpatient at the time of her initial cardiac arrest is currently being investigated by the Department of Health and NYC Medical Examiner’s Office. Officials have stated, however, that no criminal investigations are currently under way in relation to Rivers’ death.

Joan Rivers tributesTributes to the comedienne have been left on her star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame

Known for her razor sharp wit and occasionally acid tongue, Rivers enjoyed over 50 years in showbusiness after first finding fame as a guest on the 'Tonight Show' with Johnny Carson. She would go on to pave the way for females in comedy, influencing future stars such a Kathy Griffin. In recent years she had become known for her E! series ‘Fashion Police’ which she hosted along with Kelly Osbourne.