Harlem Comes Alive For Jazz Organist Bernie Thompson's Memorial Service

Jazz Organist Bernie Thompson was born on March 9th, 1933 and died on July 18th, 2005. His body was cremated and a memorial service was held in Harlem at the Trans Figuration Lutheran Church located at 74 West 126th Street in Harlem, New York. The program was coordinated by Sando O' quenda (flutist) who worked with Bernie many times on gigs. Many top jazz artists and vocalists turned out to pay tribute to this great organist and personality Bernie Thompson. Vocalist, Laura Mann, vocalist Art Jenkins, vocalist Keisha St Joan, and others performed. Ulysses Corbet, trombone, drummers; Butch Bateman, Tootsie Bean, and pianists Danny Mixon, Hank Johnson, John Miller, Jerry Weldon dropped in on saxaphone. It was a well deserved tribute to Bernie Thompson. Refreshments were served after the memorial service. Bernie Thompson will be missed by the many lives he has touched and will always be remembered for his positive attitude, happy and smiling friendly disposition. He is survived by his son and wife, Florence Thompson. Please note a picture of Bernie will be piut on the Jazzbone Records website as a tribute shortly. You can drop in there and print a picture of Bernie if you like to do so. If you wish to send a sympathy card: The Thompson Family 1127 Cramer Court Baldwin, New York 11510 OR if you wish to call and offer condolances: (516) 378-5415

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