Rodessa Barrett Porter, Member of a Storied Gospel Trio, Dies at 94

Rodessa Barrett Porter, a member of the storied gospel trio The Barrett Sisters, has passed away at the age of 94. Porter, along with her sisters Delois and Billie, formed the group in the 1950s and went on to become one of the most influential gospel groups of all time.

Born in Chicago in 1927, Rodessa Barrett Porter grew up singing in church and was known for her powerful and soulful voice. The Barrett Sisters began performing together in their local church and quickly gained a following for their harmonious vocals and energetic performances.

The group’s popularity grew throughout the 1960s and 1970s, with the Barrett Sisters releasing several albums and touring extensively. They were known for their tight harmonies and powerful delivery, and their music touched the hearts of audiences around the world.

In addition to their music, The Barrett Sisters were also known for their activism and advocacy work. They were active in the civil rights movement and used their platform to speak out against injustice and inequality.

Rodessa Barrett Porter continued to perform with The Barrett Sisters until the group officially retired in 2014. Even in her later years, Porter’s voice remained as strong and vibrant as ever, and she continued to inspire audiences with her music and message of hope and faith.

Porter’s passing is a great loss to the gospel music community, but her legacy will live on through her music and the impact she had on countless lives. She will be remembered as a talented singer, a passionate advocate, and a beloved member of The Barrett Sisters.

In a statement released by the family, they said, “Rodessa Barrett Porter was a force of nature, a true talent, and a loving sister and friend. Her music touched the hearts of so many, and her spirit will live on in the songs she sang and the lives she touched. She will be deeply missed, but her memory will always be cherished.”

Rodessa Barrett Porter’s contribution to gospel music and her commitment to social justice will not be forgotten. She leaves behind a legacy of music and activism that will continue to inspire and uplift generations to come. Rest in peace, Rodessa Barrett Porter.