IL SR0984

Illinois Senate mourns the death of gospel singer Dr. Albertina Walker, known as the "Queen of Gospel," who passed away on October 8, 2010.

Walker was born in Chicago in 1929 and began singing in her church choir at age 4; at age 22 she formed the gospel group the Caravans at the urging of Mahalia Jackson.

She had a successful solo career releasing songs including "I've Got A Feeling Everything Will Be Alright," "Jesus Will Fix It," and "Please Be Patient With Me."

Walker received numerous awards including Stellar Awards and Grammy Awards, performed for presidents and world leaders, and helped launch the careers of gospel artists James Cleveland, Shirley Caesar, and Inez Andrews.

In 1989 she established the Albertina Walker Scholarship Foundation to provide financial support and assistance to aspiring musicians, singers, and artists.