Three weeks before his death, Alagiah dictated his final thoughts to his wife Frances to be read at his memorial. In his words, he reflected on living with cancer, emphasizing the importance of expressing love, vulnerability, and the desire to be with loved ones.

Colleagues and family members remembered Alagiah not only as an award-winning journalist but also as a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend known for his empathy, compassion, and kindness. The service celebrated his impact on journalism and his shared humanity.

Attendees were encouraged to make noise and applause in his memory, and Alagiah's final instructions urged people to express their feelings to loved ones.