EastEnders bosses have promised viewers "an emotional day" when Albert Square says a final farewell to Peggy Mitchell.
The Walford stalwart, who had been played by Dame Barbara Windsor since 1994, took her own life after being diagnosed with terminal cancer in scenes broadcast in May.
The cast for the funeral episode, which is due to be broadcast on July 4, will include Danniella Westbrook as Peggy's daughter Sam Mitchell.
Westbrook, 42, has played the character on and off since 1990.
The Londoner first left the soap in 1993, but she has made several returns to resume the role.
Fans are also anticipating more screen time for award-winning documentary maker Ross Kemp.
The 51-year-old first found fame as Peggy's son Grant Mitchell in 1990.
He left in 1999 and returned in 2005 for a short stint before departing once more in 2006.
After 10 years away, Kemp headed back to EastEnders especially for Peggy's exit storyline.
In the soap, Sam will drop a bombshell when she reveals that Grant is not returning for Peggy's funeral.
On Saturday, Kemp posted a message on Twitter to say he had finished filming his scenes for the BBC One soap.
"All done on @bbceastenders #EastEnders. Sad to leave," the star wrote.
Enthralled viewers watched last month as Grant made a long-awaited return to Albert Square to be with his family at a time of need.
He returned to Portugal after a heart-to-heart with his brother Phil Mitchell (Steve McFadden).
The drama will be heightened as the Mitchells wait to see if Grant will change his mind.