Rev. Stanley Keeble informed TBGB that the Queen of Gospel, Albertina Walker, went on home to be with her Lord earlier this morning.

Ms. Walker’s tenure in gospel music extends back several decades, most notably as the organizer and lead singer of the Caravans.

Here’s a remembrance from singer-songwriter Calvin Bridges:

Albertina Walker… The Queen of Gospel Music Singers… I’m grateful to say that and to have known and worked with her. Albertina’s recordings of my compositions, “I Can Go To God In Prayer,” “Spread The Word,” “Wait On The Lord,” “Thank You For One More Day,” and others, will live forever to God’s glory! 

Many artist have recorded “I Can Go To God In Prayer,” but Tina set the standard!   She was the Best… and she paved the way for so many of us… from James Cleveland; ALL of the Caravans; myself included!

She taught me to be humble and have integrity… by example. She was always gracious and that makes you great! Long live the Queen!  I love you Tina!  I believe that Spirit never dies!   Albertina has made her transition into the presence of the Lord.  There she will walk around heaven all day in a building not made by hands…  :-) 

Here is information on Dr. Walker’s homegoing services, courtesy of Pam Morris and Sacha Daltonn:

Thursday, October 14, 2010

Public Viewing – 9:00 A.M. to 6:00 P.M.
West Point Baptist Church
3566 South Cottage Grove Church
Chicago, IL 60653

Musical Tribute – 7:00 P.M.
Apostolic Church of God
6320 S. Dorchester
Chicago, IL 60637

Friday, October 15, 2010

Visitation 10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.
Celebration of Life 11:00 a.m.
West Point Baptist Church
3566 South Cottage Grove

Rev. Dr. L. Bernard Jakes, Officiating

The family requests that in lieu of flowers, tax deductible donations be made to:

The Albertina Walker Scholarship Foundation
P.O. Box 496021
Chicago, IL 60649

Please join us in expressing condolences to Ms. Walker’s family, friends, and many, many fans.

One Comment

  1. hope October 9, 2010 at 4:52 am - Reply

    October 8th, 2010 (Jesse Jackson Birthday…Speak O’ Kind Spirit!)

    I just wish she had been publicly and vocally supportive of same gender loving men as she was in capitalizing, benefiting and taking advantage of their gifts and talents; no doubt, without, she never would have been successful nor heard. Nevertheless, God is remarkable and may God’s will continue to be done in all of our lives.

    My deepest condolences to our at-large gospel community and everyone affected by her transition; including myself. O taste and see…

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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.