The singing may have stopped, but the legacy of one local voice is sure to ring on through the ages.
Starkville said goodbye to one of the founding members of Black Voices Gospel Choir Carroll T. Washington on Thursday, March 23.
Black Voices is the oldest African-American organization on the campus of Mississippi State University and those who knew Washington said he remained devoted to God and the choir for 45 years.
In February 1972, Washington was approached to become the choir’s leading musician and he graciously accepted. At the time of his passing Thursday, Washington was the choir’s oldest active member.
Washington served as alumni advisor to the choir for years. Tiera Tyler, the current president of Black Voices, was impacted by Washington before and after becoming the organization’s student leader.
“Mr. Washington was a seasoned saint,” she said. “He was a wise advisor that I could go to for guidance and knowledge of what made Black Voices special. So with that being said, he didn't play around either, he was honest.”
Tyler said he was a hands-on advisor who wanted Black Voices to be the best organization possible.
“He meant what he said and he said what he meant, no ifs and's or buts about it,” Tyler said. “The roots of the discipline for Black Voices as a unit came from Mr. Washington. And I truly appreciate him for being the leading light he provided unfailing love and hard work Black Voices.”
Maranda Armstrong, a four-year choir member, said she will be eternally grateful for what Washington not only began but continually poured his heart into until his last days.
“He came to at least one practice every semester and he was unapologetically direct but everything that he said was out of love and a genuine heart not only for the organization but for each of us,” Armstrong said.
At 74 years old, Washington leaves behind his wife Jackie Dunn Washington. Carroll Washington’s love and dedication to the choir was witnessed by all who knew him and he personally requested that Black Voices sing at his funeral. Black Voices and the city of Starkville will say their final goodbyes to Washington on Saturday, April 1, at Beth-el Missionary Baptist Church, at 2 p.m.
Washington made his impact on and off campus, as he remained the Minister of Music at Ebenezer Baptist Church in Starkville for 51 years. He opened up Ebenezer’s doors to Black Voices, where they have continued to have their regularly scheduled rehearsals every Monday and Thursday.
“He'd tell us how to work and stay together and how important it was to allow God to move through us so that we can carry out our mission,” Armstrong. “I really pray and hope that this organization can continue to not only live up to what he has taught us but exceed those expectations and make him proud and give glory to God's name.”