Sarah Alfred of G&A Productions informed TBGB that Major Roberson, longtime member of the Pilgrim Jubilees, passed away. Mr. Roberson had been suffering from a prolonged illness.

D.A. Johnson of Malaco Records contributes the following:

Major Roberson was born to this world on June 11, 1925 in Gunnison, MS and went home to be with the Lord Monday, March 1, 2010, 11:00 PM at his home in Chicago, IL.

Major Roberson was not only a singer, but an accomplished songwriter, having written several songs for the famed group. His most notable songs were “The Old Ship Of Zion,” “The Doors Of The Church Are Open,” “Church Song,” “Don’t Let Me Drift Away,” “Exit 100,” “He Brought Joy To My Soul,” “Me My God And I,” & “Testify For Jesus.”

Major Roberson is survived by his wife Hattie Roberson, several children, a
host of grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Arrangements have been scheduled as follows:

Friday, March 12, 2010 7:00 P.M.
“A Musical Tribute”
Gatling Chapel Annex
10133 S. Halsted St.
Chicago, Il 60628
773-881-4111

Saturday, March 13, 2010
Homegoing Celebration
Visitation: 10-11 AM
Funeral: 11-12 Noon

Greater White Stone MBC
3819 W. Ogden Ave.
Chicago, Il.60623
773-762-4113

For more information, to send flowers or cards of condolences, please
contact:

Gatling’s Chapel
10133 S. Halsted St.
Chicago, Il. 60628
773-881-4111 Phone
773-881-3925 Fax

Or

Val Grant 708-841-3319

For more information on the history of The Pilgrim Jubilees, please feel
free to visit www.malaco.com.

Photo credit: Malaco Records

37 Comments

  1. Daddy'sgirl March 4, 2010 at 12:17 pm - Reply

    My condolences go out to the Roberson family as well as the Jubs…to be absent n the body is to be present with Jesus…stay strong n keep serving GOD…PEACE BE UNTO U!

  2. Anonymous March 6, 2010 at 12:30 am - Reply

    To the Roberson family and the Pilgrim Jubilees, Bro. B.T. Green and the Christian Harmonettes & Bro Rufus Poole and The Stars Of Faith both of Durham, NC would like to send our condolences to you. Our hearts were saddened to hear about Major’s passing. Our prayers are with you. May god forever wrap you in His grace and mercy your as you go through this difficult time. Christian Harmonettes & Stars Of Faith.

  3. Anonymous March 6, 2010 at 1:38 pm - Reply

    To the Roberson family and the Pilgrim Jubilees,I Prophetess Annie L. Hearns would like to give my condolences to you all on the the home going of Major Roberson. He was such a kind person and he will be sadly missed by all. My prayers and thoughts are with you during this diffcult time.
    Prophetess Annie L. Hearns
    Mobile,Al

  4. Anonymous March 7, 2010 at 4:10 am - Reply

    Major was my father-in-law I was married to his son on his birthday. He will be so missed. My condolences to the Roberson family and all of his children.

  5. Anonymous March 7, 2010 at 6:56 pm - Reply

    We loved Major so much here in Atlanta. The Jubes had many extended Family from all over the world and they touched us in their own way. We miss you Major and thank you for all of the love and encouragement you offered to us all. Never had a bad word to say about anyone. God blessed us with an Angel.

    We love you and wish your Family and the Jubes much strength and love. God Bless you Major will you be missed tremendously.

    S.Heath-Longino

  6. Anonymous March 7, 2010 at 11:48 pm - Reply

    To the Roberson family &pilgram jubilees.
    stay strong,for God said, low I’ll be with you even til the end of time, in my santified mind,i know, mr.Robinson knew, god was all in his room, one of the few songs he wrote.now walking around heaven still singing and stepping,kicking,leaning on the old oak tree, THAT TREE IS JESUS!! AWESOME WONDERS, AND FEELING FINE, no pain without Gain. riding the old ship to Zion, home at last,thank God almighty, home at last.SAME IN HIS ARMS.

  7. Anonymous March 8, 2010 at 3:35 am - Reply

    To the Roberson Family and the Pilgrim Jubilees, we The Mighty Golden Bells of Raleigh, NC extend our sincere condolences to you in the passing of your loved one “Major”. Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this time. May God continue to Bless and comfort each of you.

  8. Anonymous March 9, 2010 at 5:41 am - Reply

    NOT KNOWING WHO YOU WERE AS I TOOK CARE OF YOU AS ONE OF MY PATIENTS, ALONE WAS AN HONOR. TO BE ABSENT IN THE BODY IS TO BE PRESENT WITH GOD>. I DON’T ABOUT YOU ALL, BUT THAT’S A GOOD THING. MAY GOD BLESS HIS FAMILY. MONA. SEE YOU FRI NITE.

  9. Anonymous March 9, 2010 at 5:45 am - Reply

    IT’S BEEN AN HONOR TAKING CARE OF MR ROBERSON AS ONE OF MY PATIENTS. DID’NT KNOW THAT WE HAD A CELEBRITY IN OUR PRESENCE. REGARDLESS HE WAS STILL A NICE MAN TO TAKE CARE OF. THE BIBLE SAYS TO BE ABSENT IN THE BODY ,IS TO BE PRESENCE WITH THE LORD. I DON’T KNOW ABOUT YOU ALL, BUT THAT’S A GOOD THING. MAY GOD BLESS THE FAMILY. MONA, SEE YOU FRIDAY NITE.

  10. Anonymous March 9, 2010 at 11:30 am - Reply

    The Pittman and Dean, family, are sending their condolences, to the Roberson family..Also the Graham brother’s,and the rest of the Jubs, Major’s was a brother to them. Major’s will be miss..by his bigger fan’s from Miss. May God’s bless and keep his family.
    We remember, God’s don’t make any mistake, He seen, His flower’s getting tried, He puck it up..and plant him in His garden of love, no more pain, no worry,only peace.

  11. perience March 9, 2010 at 11:54 am - Reply

    We the Pittman, Dean, and Davil family..are sending our deeply condolences, to the Roberson family, truly this was a very sad day for our family..Bro Roberson was a God’s fearing man..We are also sending our condolences to the Graham’s brothers, and the rest of the Pilgrim Jubilees..I know we loved Bro, Major, but God’s knew he was getting tried..Brother Major, had did his work while on earth, he travel, from years to years, singing and praising, God’s name..You will be miss our brother in Christ’s, but he will live on through our heart and soul’s with the gospel songs you lelf behind.

    May God’s send His Angles, to watch over the Roberson’s family, and comfort them, and their time of sorrow.

    Dean, Pittman and Davis, family.
    Mississippi.

  12. Anonymous March 9, 2010 at 2:41 pm - Reply

    To the Roberson family and the Pilgrim Jubilees: The family of the late Hanson Strickland, better known as “The Ole Friendly Boy” (some called him “Hamp” or “Strick”), long time gospel promoter in Clinton, NC, would like to extend our sincere condolences to you. Major and the other members of the Pilgrim Jubliees will forever be remembered in our lives. We were saddened to hear of Major’s passing, but know that he has gone on to be with our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. He will be missed but not forgotten. May God continue to bless you and shed his shining light upon you. Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time.

    Respectfully submitted,
    The Family of the late Hanson Strickland, Clinton, North Carolina

  13. nitaharris10@yahoo.com March 11, 2010 at 12:23 am - Reply

    I really don’t know what to say, because, my heart is heavy right now and has been since last week when I got the word that my father (Major Roberson) died. Daddy, I am glad you are with the father up above where you always wanted to be. I will miss you coming to Charlotte with or without the jubs to see me and mama, making sure I’m being the young lady you’ve raised, but, I am happy cause I don’t have to worry about you anymore cause you are with the real doctor. Love You Always, Your Loving Daughter, Nita Harris(Charlotte, NC)

    • LaQuita Myles September 17, 2019 at 6:44 am - Reply

      Hello Nita. My name is LaQuita Myles and I live in Clarksdale, MS. I’m trying to reach out because I’m Major’s daughter as well and I don’t know any of my siblings and I would like to get to know you. If you get this message, please contact me at laquitamyles49@yahoo.com. or 662-302-9025.

  14. Anonymous March 11, 2010 at 5:20 pm - Reply

    We have sure lost another gentleman in the industry. I am a big fan of the “Jubes” for more than 20yrs.Major carried himself like a professional on & off stage,God Bless the Robeson Family & the rest of the Jubes. Angelo Breeden-Ral.NC

  15. Anonymous March 12, 2010 at 5:12 am - Reply

    I thank God that HE gave me the oppertunity to be apart of The Pilgrim Jubilees for about 2 years and share the stage with my friend Major Roberson on many programs. Not only was he a great singer and great man, he also was a good friend. It was an honor to have known him and sang with him. To the Roberson Family, we offer our condolences and to The Jubes, my thoughts and prayers are with you my brothers. We’ll miss you, Major. Tony Hawkins & Family, Raleigh, N.C.

  16. Henry Greenville SC March 14, 2010 at 5:55 am - Reply

    Today, March 13,2010, was when I first learned of the spiritual transition of Mr. Major Roberson. I was really saddened to learn of this. He was truly blessed to have been with us for 85 years. The “Jubes” were my father’s favorite group and we were a part of a local group that sang many songs made popular by the “Jubes”. Rest in peace Major.

  17. Anonymous March 21, 2010 at 2:27 am - Reply

    I am really sorry for your lost may God bless you and strengthen you. Major Roberson will truly be missed. We love you Major Roberson but God loves you best.
    McDaniel Family
    South Carolina

  18. Robin Shaw May 2, 2010 at 8:11 pm - Reply

    My name is Robin Shaw. I’m the daughter of Major Roberson. I just recently found out about my father’s passing. I was so shocked. I’m still shocked. I didn’t have my father around me alot as a child but he did his best to keep in contact with me. He would always make sure i made it to Milwaukee to see him when the jubes would come sing. My father always acknowledged me as his little girl and i know he loved me. He called me about 2 years ago the day after i got married. That ment the world to me since he was sick and couldn’t make it. I know my father is in a better place painfree and looking down on me and my children. Daddy I love you and I will never forget you. Love your daughter Robin.

    • LaQuita Myles September 17, 2019 at 6:40 am - Reply

      Hello Robin. My name is LaQuita Myles and I live in Clarksdale, MS. The reason for the reply is because I’ve been trying to reach out to my siblings on Daddy’s side that I don’t know of and would like to get to know. If you receive this, please contact me at 662-302-9025 or email me at laquitamyles49@yahoo.com.

    • LaQuita Myles January 11, 2020 at 7:15 am - Reply

      Robin when you get this message, call or text me. I’ve been sick and lost my phone Christmas Eve and didn’t have your contact #. Whenever you see this just text me. Love you sister???

  19. Evelyn July 20, 2010 at 4:54 am - Reply

    I am saddened to hear about Mr. Roberson’s death. It’s if the Lord said come on home and sing for me in heaven. You have given your all on earth. I will miss him singing and shouting in the background on so many songs with the Jubes. Rest in peace Mr. Roberson God sure annointed you and I’m sure you were truly saved to have sang like that. My condolences to the family and the Jubes.

  20. Anonymous January 11, 2011 at 5:16 am - Reply

    I just saw this article concerning Mahor Roberson. How saddened I was. It brought back memories listening to the Pilgrim Jubilees. This is one of my favorite groups. I truly enjoyed watching, Cleve, Clay, Ben and the Major, also Bobo on drums and the guitar players. I just been watching them perform on youtube. My dad use to take me hear them as a little girl. It was his favorite group. I’m so sorry to hear about his passing, however he finished his course and their is a crown laid up in heaven. God bless mrs. Roberson and family.

  21. Anonymous July 4, 2011 at 6:20 am - Reply

    I AM THE DAUGTHER OF MAJOR ROBERSON I HAVE SISTERS BROTHER I DONT KNOW I WOULD LIK TO MEET YOU MY NAME IS PATRICIA .YOU ARE LOVE.IF YOU WANT TO MEET OR TALK TO ME POST ON YOUR COMMENT. HOPE I HEAR FROM YOU SOON.YOUR SISTER

    • Anonymous July 21, 2012 at 11:24 pm - Reply

      Hi i am major grandson major the 3rd my mom is Helen,plz call 763-516-4748

    • Anonymous July 21, 2012 at 11:29 pm - Reply

      I am major grandson major the 3rd my mom is Helen.plz call me 763-5164748

    • LaQuita Myles September 17, 2019 at 6:37 am - Reply

      Hello Patricia. My name is LaQuita Myles and I’m one of Mayor’s daughter’s and for years I’ve been trying to learn about my siblings I know nothing about. If you receive this, please contact me at 662-302-9025 or email me at laquitamyles49@yahoo.com.

  22. Bob Marovich July 4, 2011 at 3:09 pm - Reply

    Hello, Patricia — feel free to send me an email at bob@gospelmemories.com.

  23. Anonymous December 16, 2011 at 7:13 pm - Reply

    People are many different things to many different people. To you maybe he was a good man…but to me he was a child molesting dog. MAY HE REST IN SHIT!

    • Anonymous April 10, 2012 at 3:49 am - Reply

      Such nasty words coming from a filthy mouth.may you find Peace.

    • Anonymous October 20, 2017 at 7:59 am - Reply

      I thank God for Jesus and his saving power. I’m so glad that it’s 2 sides to every story. I don’t know niether side of the story but one isgside gone to heaven. What may or may not have happened over 50 plus years ago has been put in the sea of forgiveness. God is a loving and forgiving God and requires it of all who want to see him. If you ever did any wrong please don’t cast no stones especially abourt hat can’t speak for their self. Produce the report a conviction.
      If you can’t do that you sound like a fool. Sad indeed.

    • Robin Shaw February 12, 2021 at 5:33 am - Reply

      Such a horrible thing to say. Major is my father. This is not the place to put such hateful words.

  24. Tyrell Howard November 5, 2015 at 1:59 am - Reply

    I am Major`s son Tyrell from Richmond, VA. I would like to meet my brothers and sisters. I`ve been wanting to meet my family on my father`s side for many years. If you are related to Major please call me at 804-205-0648.

  25. La'Quita Myles June 22, 2016 at 2:50 pm - Reply

    My name is LaQuita Myles of Clarksdale, MS and I’m the youngest daughter of Major Roberson and I would love more than anything to meet all my brothers and sisters on Daddy’s side. If anyone see this please contact me at 662-592-1161. I would really appreciate it.

  26. Pastor Frank Thompson. Jr September 5, 2016 at 8:28 pm - Reply

    God only receive those that He is ready for.

  27. LaQuita Myles January 11, 2020 at 7:19 am - Reply

    Hello Patricia. My name is La’Quita Myles and I’m from Clarksdale, MS. I’ve been trying to reach out to my siblings and so far I’ve reached one, but lost her #. Give me a call or text at (662)302-9025.

    • LaQuita Myles October 24, 2023 at 5:02 pm - Reply

      Hello. I’m La’Quita Myles and I’m Major’s youngest child and I have brothers and sisters that I don’t know that I would love to meet. I live in Maryland. If any of you see this, please reach out to me at (662)302-9025 or email me at laquitamyles49@yahoo.com or deltapeach35@gmail.com. I love you and have a blessed day!

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Written by : Bob Marovich

Bob Marovich is a gospel music historian, author, and radio host. Founder of Journal of Gospel Music blog (formally The Black Gospel Blog) and producer of the Gospel Memories Radio Show.