Remembering a Woman of First Class
By Robert Burgins, Jr.
June has been known as African-American Music Appreciation Month (Black Music Month), started in 1979 by Kenny Gamble, Ed Wright, and Dyana Williams and decreed as such by former President Jimmy Carter. Ironically and sadly one of Jefferson County’s most beloved musical voices was laid to rest this past Saturday within Black Music Month.
Ms. Oneshia R. Hutchinson was a staple within the musical communities of Alabama, with a sharp ear for vocal and musical talents and also a singer in her own right, spreading the Holy Gospel and fellowshipping with several churches throughout our communities over the years. She’d host an Annual Benefit Concert (which this year marked the eleventh anniversary) for the First Baptist Church of West Ensley, every June which has brought together various groups, soloists and musicians over time.
A bright spirit and beautiful soul, Ms. Hutchinson was known for her dedication to God’s work and love for her family and fellow church members.
Fond memories of her diligence, passion, unselfishness and inspiring outlooks were shared by family, classmates and church members, with a rendering tribute by Dr. Veronica Salary. Combined choirs (which featured members of Ms. Hutchinson’s home church) serenaded the audience members with supreme readings of songs such as “My Soul Has Got to Move”, “Every Praise” and others.
Reverend Mathew Hunter delivered a riveting message from the subject point of “A Life Worth Living” which he mentioned “Sister Hutchinson wasn’t afraid to do what she’d been called to do, and she wanted everything in order and done in a first class manner.”
An educator for the Birmingham City School system, a lover of words (poetry writer), United Community Choir member and Coordinator of the #3 Institute for the Peace Baptist District Association, we remember a woman, Ms. Oneshia Hutchinson, one who exemplified the importance of leaving nothing undone.
We send condolences to her family (children and grandchildren), friends and church families.
