LUFKIN — Hearts across East Texas are heavy after the passing of Willie Mae Durham, a true songbird whose powerful, soulful voice brought comfort, inspiration, and joy to countless lives for over nine decades.
Mrs. Durham, 91, formerly of Lufkin, passed away peacefully in Missouri City, Texas, on Oct. 1, surrounded by her loving family.
The news of her death was met with an outpouring of condolences, comfort, sympathy, and a flood of shared memories of what many describe as a beautiful, impactful life.
“Willie Mae Durham was more than a musician; she was a pillar of the community, a beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, friend, and a family matriarch whose blessed presence radiated warmth and faith,” said Tina Alexander-Sellers.
Born Willie Mae Scott on July 3, 1934, in Nigton, to J.D. and Mary Scott, Mrs. Durham's journey was one steeped in devotion to God and extraordinary musical talent. She attended the Dunbar Independent School District, graduating in 1953, and from the tender age of 8, became a dedicated member of the Greater Shiloh Baptist Church.
Her musical ministry began early, with her starting to play the piano at the New Center Prospect Church at just 15 years old, blessing the congregation with her vocal and instrumental gifts for five years. The Holy Spirit then led her to the Church of the Living God on Culverhouse, where her ministry of music flourished for 30 years.
After a significant tenure, she found another home at Peaceful Rest Baptist Church for 12 years, consistently spreading the gospel through her cherished music. In a testament to her deep roots and unwavering faith, Willie Mae felt a strong anointing to return to her home church, Greater Shiloh Missionary Baptist Church, where she continued to share her gifts and talents, impacting generations.
“Mrs. Willie Mae Durham, Deep East Texas owns Mahalia Jackson,” said Robert Shankle, Lufkin Ward 2 Council Member, encapsulating the profound impact of her voice. “Through her songs she brought peace, happiness and soothing to your soul. A strong voice in the community, the church community and city. Everyone she came in contact with felt honored to be in her presence. Humble, caring, integrity and most of all a child of God. Take your rest well done thy good and faithful servant.”
Affectionately known as "Little Mahalia Jackson" due to her anointed voice that touched the hearts of many, Mrs. Durham was a soloist for whoever called, always ready to share her gift. She was the visionary founder of The Gospel Silvertones of Lufkin and a dedicated member of the Lufkin Interdenominational.
Willie Mae found love and partnership with J.L. Durham Sr., with whom she shared four children by birth: James L. Durham Jr., Willie D. Durham, Lillie J. Thomas, and James C. Durham. Beyond her own family, she served as a mother figure to countless others, her compassion and wisdom extending far and wide.
Her remarkable contributions to the community were formally recognized on Jan. 20, 2013, when then-Lufkin Mayor Bob Brown proclaimed it "Willie Mae Durham Day." The proclamation lauded her lifelong dedication to Christ, her musical ministry, and her unwavering spirit of service.
Mayor Brown’s proclamation stated, "Her powerful anointing voice still touches and blesses others when they hear her melodious voice, it often reminds her family of the late Mahalia Jackson. Durham said that she will continue to serve the Lord until he takes her home.” And indeed, she served faithfully until the very end.
Mrs. Durham was employed by the Lufkin State School, further demonstrating her commitment to service within her community.
Visitation will be held on Friday from 6 to 8 p.m. at All Families Mortuary, 222 Leach St., in Lufkin. Services will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 11, with viewing from 10 to 11 a.m. at First Baptist Missionary Church, 410 Scarborough St., in Lufkin. Interment will follow at Cedar Grove Cemetery in Lufkin.
While East Texas grieves the loss of its beloved songbird, the echoes of Willie Mae Durham's beautiful, soulful melodies will undoubtedly continue to resonate, bringing comfort, hope, and inspiration for generations to come. Her legacy of faith, kindness, and extraordinary talent will forever brighten the heart of the community she served so devotedly.
