Marilyn Monroe's death on August 5, 1962, sparked huge controversy and, in the eyes of her fans, was never truly solved. The actress, singer and model was best known for her sex appeal and screen presence. She redefined the role of women in Hollywood and opened the door to future generations of female celebrity hopefuls. To this day, many people refuse to believe that her death was accidental, and there is much speculation over what or who truly killed her.

A startling discovery

On August 5, 1962, Marilyn Monroe was found dead by her live-in housekeeper, Mrs. Eunice Murray, in the bedroom of her Brentwood, California home clutching her telephone. She was 36 years old. In the early hours of the morning, Murray called two doctors who found Monroe lying naked in her bed with an empty bottle of Nembutal sleeping pills by her side.

Cause of death

The local coroner, who visited the scene later, said the circumstances of the death of Marilyn Monroe indicated a "possible suicide". Since then, several conspiracy theories have surfaced in the decades after her death, including some involving the Kennedy family, alleging that her death was deliberate. There is also speculation that her death was accidental.

Saying goodbye

Joe DiMaggio, Monroe's former husband and still loyal friend, claimed her body and planned her funeral. He excluded anyone he deemed morally responsible for her death. Marilyn Monroe was buried in what was known at that time as the "Cadillac of Caskets", manufactured by the famous Belmont casket company. Before the service, the outer lid and the upper half of the divided inner lid remained opened so that mourners could get one last glimpse. Whitey Snyder had prepared her face for her last appearance - true to his promise to her should she die before him. Monroe held a small bouquet of pink teacup roses and was dressed in her favorite green Emilio Pucci dress.

The service

The service, held at the Westwood Memorial Park Chapel in Hollywood, was attended by only thirty people. Marilyn's acting coach, Lee Strasberg, delivered her eulogy. On August 8, 1962, Monroe was interred in a pink marble crypt at Corridor of Memories, #24, at the Westwood Village Memorial Park Cemetery in Los Angeles. This is the cemetery where her foster mother Grace Goddard's aunt was buried; Monroe had arranged for Goddard to be buried there.

Marilyn Monroe was born Norma Jeane Mortenson on June 1, 1926 in Los Angeles. The death of Marilyn Monroe stunned the world and the related circumstances of her death continue to be debated to this day. Although the cause of her death seems shrouded in mystery, her legacy is undeniable. Her influence is easily perceived in icons such as Madonna and Christina Aguilera, and in famous images on posters around the world. She may have left this world, but she will always be remembered.  Source