This past Saturday, the sad yet necessary visit was made to the homegoing celebration of one Mr. Manuel Fitch.
Mr. Fitch served Jefferson County for forty plus years as an informative radio announcer at several radio stations that included WENN & WJLD Broadcasting networks.
A passionate one about his craft as an information sharer to listening residents, Mr. Fitch was also a hardworking employee and dedicated family man.
Held at New Bethelehem Baptist Church, serviced by Chambers Funeral Home and officiated by Pastor, Douglas Caddell, the services reflected upon a life of a man with a love for laughter, a true friend, well respected Bessemer citizen and one who’s passion was music. Classmate, John Smith sung “No More Tears In Heaven” as dedication to a friend.
Pastor Whitt said “One thing Mr. Fitch would always do, was shake your hand and then present to you a Gospel cd. It wasn’t just his job or career but it was a part of his musical ministry to share with others for listening inspiration within this sometimes hard world.”
Richardson Broadcasting President, Gary Richardson along with wife Mrs. Willamena Richardson reflected upon the good work ethic and caring spirit of Mr. Fitch whom they stated was not just an employee but a family member who shared wisdom throughout the years.
Mr. Augusta Maul also gave a tribute through reflective memories.
Mr. Fitch was also an employee at Bristol Steel, Trustee Board member of Canaan Baptist Church (Bessemer, AL) and is also a part of the Birmingham Black Radio Musuem (Birmingham, AL) where recordings of his broadcasts can be heard today.
Starting off under the monikers of ‘Mellow Man’ and ‘Weekend Warrior’ (from the 1970s to the 1980s) Mr. Fitch would become one of the most well know Gospel DJs in Jefferson County under the name of ‘God’s Child’.
Pastor Douglas Caddell gave a personable sermon as Pastor to Mr. Fitch and also a friend and fan of his.
Pastor Caddell stated, “We’ve come to celebrate Mr. Fitch’s homegoing, he touched our lives and made a difference and was willing to serve friends in need because he realized that was his calling, and we’re grateful for his life.”
We recognize a mentor, a father figure, teacher and hero to many of us, Mr. Manuel Fitch a man with a mellow spirit who musically did as he saw as the Lord’s work.
Thanks and respect to the Fitch family for sharing him with us.
