“God Be With You Until We Meet Again”

It was one of many poignant moments during DeLois Barrett Campbell’s nearly four-hour service, held at the Trinity United Church of Christ on Chicago’s south side.  Dozens of the city’s most influential pastors, as well as a score of friends, gospel singers and family members delivered words or sang their tributes to the world-famous vocalist. 

Anthony Heilbut (The Gospel Sound) played DeLois’ first and last solo recording.  George T. Nierenberg, director of the acclaimed 1982 film Say Amen, Somebody, which featured the Barrett Sisters and brought them international exposure, offered his personal recollections of working with DeLois and her sisters. 

A musical highlight was 80 year-old Roberta Martin Singer Romance Watson igniting the church with “He Looked Beyond My Faults,” his voice as powerful as ever. 

The family received a special letter of condolence from President Barack Obama and played a recorded message from Queen of Soul Aretha Franklin.  DeLois’s interment is today, where she will be carried to her resting place in a horse-drawn carriage.  An apt farewell to one of gospel’s royal family.

Photo Credit: Bob Marovich