A Heartfelt Tribute to Roberta Flack at Her Funeral

On March 10, 2025, the Abyssinian Baptist Church in New York hosted a moving farewell to soul legend Roberta Flack, who passed away just weeks earlier at 88. The ceremony was a reflection of her deep connection to gospel music, starting from her childhood in Arlington, Virginia, where she was influenced by hymns at the Lomax African Methodist Episcopal Zion Church. The service was filled with musical tributes from close friends like Valerie Simpson, who performed Flack’s rendition of ‘Ain’t No Mountain High Enough,’ and New Orleans pianist Davell Crawford, who honored Flack with ‘Just When I Needed You.’ The highlight of the service came when Lauryn Hill, joined by Wyclef Jean, delivered a powerful performance of ‘The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face,’ followed by a rendition of ‘Killing Me Softly With His Song.’ Stevie Wonder also paid tribute with two soulful songs, including ‘I Can See the Sun in Late December,’ a piece written for Flack. Other performances included Lisa Fisher’s heartfelt rendition of ‘Somewhere’ from *West Side Story*, and the aria ‘Casta Diva’ performed by Nia Drummond. Flack’s funeral was not only a celebration of her musical legacy but also a spiritual journey for all who gathered to say goodbye. She was laid to rest at Oak Hill Cemetery in Washington, D.C.