Interesting, overlooked, and significant obituaries from around the world, as they happen, emphasizing the positive achievements of those who have died. Member, Society of Professional Obituary Writers.
Tuesday, April 11, 2017
Linda Hopkins
Tony-winning actress and singer -- via Soul Tracks. AKA Melinda Helen Matthews, 'Lil Helen Matthews.' She was discovered as a child by Mahalia Jackson. She saw Bessie Smith perform, and later did a well-done tribute show to her. She sang gospel, blues, and jazz; she played with Pops. She recorded "Shake a Hand" with Jackie Wilson. She was in the 1961 Broadway hit Purlie, and won a Tony in 1972 for Inner City.
