Mahalia Jackson's spiritual mentor
Mother Fannie Parthenia Gay is a name that holds a special place in the annals of Chicago's gospel music scene. She was not only an outstanding figure in this vibrant musical world, but also a deeply revered spiritual mentor to the legendary Mahalia Jackson. Her influence extended far beyond musical performances and shaped the lives of many who had the privilege of knowing her.
Fannie Parthenia Gay and her husband Jerry Gay immigrated from Georgia to Chicago and became early and dedicated members of a Church of God in Christ (COGIC) on Chicago's West Side. Mother Fannie Gay was a sought-after evangelist and took over the leadership of the COGIC church choir—a role that highlighted her great musical and spiritual talent.
The Gays raised five musically gifted children: Robert, Evelyn, Mildred, Geraldine, and Donald. Their home was a unique place where gospel and jazz coexisted side by side, influencing the children's musical development in a unique way.
Their daughters Mildred, Evelyn, and Geraldine formed the acclaimed gospel group "The Gay Sisters." Donald Gay proudly called them "the first authentic sister group to come out of the Church of God in Christ." They were known for their tight harmonies, impressive stage presence, and stylish performances. Their arrangement of the hymn "God Will Take Care of You," recorded for Savoy Records in 1951, was a sensational success, reportedly selling a million copies. Evelyn composed the characteristic staccato rhythm that gave this song its distinctive flavor.
The youngest son, Donald Gay, was a child prodigy evangelist known as the "Boy Preacher," who began preaching at the age of five. His talent led him to Mahalia Jackson's debut at Carnegie Hall in 1950, and the Gay Singers (later the name of the family group) followed in 1954. Geraldine, an exceptionally gifted pianist, played by ear and developed a unique style that skillfully incorporated jazz harmonies into gospel.
Mahalia Jackson deeply trusted Mother Gay's wisdom and prayers. Mother Gay was widely known for her powerful prayers and was described as a quiet, gentle woman who laid her hands on people and prayed softly—an image of peace and deep spirituality. Her support was particularly moving in 1952, when Mahalia was unable to go on her planned European tour due to illness. Mother Gay prayed for her, and Mahalia made a full recovery and was ready to travel despite her fear of flying. Mahalia also sought out Mother Gay for "faith healings" and received the comforting assurance that "the Lord would heal her."
Mother Gay possessed an amazing spiritual gift: through divine revelation, she knew of Mahalia's plans to build a temple that would also house divine healers like herself, even before Mahalia told her. This deep spiritual connection underscored the extraordinary role Mother Gay played in Mahalia's life. Even during personal crises, such as her divorce from Sigmond Galloway, Mother Gay offered Mahalia unwavering prayer support.
Mother Fannie Gay was undoubtedly a remarkable woman whose legacy in gospel music and as a spiritual mentor will never be forgotten.
©Thilo Plaesser