Thousands attend funeral service for Richard Smallwood
By Patricia McDougall Special to the AFRO
Thousands gathered Jan. 24 to celebrate the life and legacy of gospel legend Richard Smallwood. The service was held at The First Baptist Church of Glenarden International in Maryland and included performances by members of the Metropolitan Baptist Church, Union Temple Baptist Church, Howard Gospel Choir of Howard University and an array of gospel artists who knew and worked with Smallwood, including Maurette Clark Brown and Dottie Jones.
Reflections were given by Maryland Gov. Wes Moore, actress Phylicia Rashad, family members and more, who came together to honor the maestro behind gospel hits such as “The Center of My Joy” and “Total Praise.”
People came from Maryland, the surrounding areas and beyond to fill the church and show respect and love for Smallwood’s work. All photos AFRO Photos/ Patricia McDougall
A combined choir comprising singers from Metropolitan Baptist Church, Union Temple Baptist Church and Howard University choir, performs throughout Richard Smallwood’s homegoing celebration.
Maryland Gov. Wes Moore delivers remarks and even sings a piece of Richard Smallwood’s gospel hit song “The Center of My Joy,” as his wife, First Lady Dawn Moore, looks on.
Betty Entzminger (left), Jedda Queen, Rev. Rosemarie Jones and Theresa Brown take a moment to fellowship.
The Rev. Dr. Maurice Watson, former pastor of Metropolitan Baptist Church, delivered the eulogy at the homegoing celebration of gospel artist Richard Smallwood.
Gospel artists Jimmy Russell (left) and Freda Gardner, make an appearance at the service, along with Janae Sturgis, Derrick Thompson and Deshon Gales.
Shown here, Rev. Dr. Chaz T. Gipson (left), Rev. Dr. Anthony Jones and Rev Alan Gray.
Shown here, U.S. Sen. Angela Alsobrooks (D-Md.), left; Pastor George Lewis Parks, senior servant at Metropolitan Baptist Church in Largo, Md.; and Dr. H. Beecher Hicks Jr., senior servant emeritus of Metropolitan Baptist Church in Largo, Md.
Actress Phylicia Rashad (left) offers condolences to members of the Smallwood family.
Maurette Brown Clark, an original member of the Richard Smallwood Singers, leads a version of “Angels,” released in 1996.