On the morning of October 8, 2010 the "Queen of Gospel" Albertina Walker passed away at the age of 81. She discovered and launched the careers of many gospel music greats such as Shirley Caesar and Rev. James Cleveland. I had the pleasure of meeting her one year during the Stellar Awards weekend. She was gracious enough to allow me and many others to be photographed with her.
During the GMWA gospel music convention, I had the opportunity to photograph the Caravans performing in Orlando. They sang a few of their timeless hits, including "Mary Don't You Weep" with Inez Andrews singing lead. They got so into the song that the music faded out before they finished singing. That was my first time ever hearing the group perform live, and it was certainly a treat. So much so, that I was standing with the audience and almost forgot to photograph them.
Albertina Walker will sorely be missed by all who knew her, and those who were touched by her love of God and gospel music.
