Minutes of Sacred Harp Singings

The 16th annual Jack Smith Memorial Singing was held on Memorial Day at Oakhurst Baptist Church in Decatur, Georgia. John Plunkett welcomed the class, and led 59. He also spoke of Jack Smith’s delight in Sacred Harp singing and his success in leading others to the tradition. Andy Morse offered the opening prayer.

Leaders: John Plunkett 32t; Joan Durdin 479, 34b; Malinda Snow 137, 38b; Chris Tweedy 282, 100; Helen Bryson 155, 313b; Nathan Holmes 324, 284; Andy Morse 99, 547; Jerusha Wheeler 63, 40; B.M. Smith 101t, 72b.

RECESS

Joan Durdin brought the class back to order leading 48t. Leaders: Ellen Ray 418, 400; Rob Dunn 274t, 64; Eric Tweedy 147t, 146; Amy Wells 112, 76b; Anders Wells 89, 110; John Plunkett 145t; Joan Durdin 148; Malinda Snow 472; Chris Tweedy 535; Andy Morse 209 (for Oliver, Paul, and their family); Jerusha Wheeler 87; Nathan Holmes 47t, 389; Helen Bryson 287. Eric Tweedy asked the blessing before the noon meal.

LUNCH

John Plunkett called the class to order leading 503. Leaders: B.M. Smith 225t (for Earlis McGraw); Susan Posey 300, 344; Laura Ackerman 224, 73t; Ellen Ray 183; Rob Dunn 275t; Mark Bumgardner 178, 547; Andrew Gee 35, 58; Chris Tweedy 276; Anders Wells 70b; Amy Wells 411; Joan Durdin 86; Malinda Snow 454; Susan Posey 475; Mark Bumgardner 117; Helen Bryson 176t; Nathan Holmes 327; Andy Morse 542; Ellen Ray 448b; Eric Tweedy 200; Chris Tweedy 448t; Rob Dunn 346; John Plunkett 455.

Throughout the day, leaders remembered Jack Smith with brief comments, often choosing songs that he enjoyed singing.

After announcements, John Plunkett led 347 as the closing song. Andrew Gee offered the closing prayer.

Chairman—John Plunkett; Vice Chairman—Joan Durdin; Secretary—Malinda Snow