Dr. James Abbington, Advocate for African American Sacred Music, Dies at 65

Dr. W. James "Jimmie" Abbington Jr., an esteemed scholar, musician, editor, and mentor who dedicated his life to preserving and advancing African American sacred music, passed away on September 27 following complications from a medical procedure. He was 65.

Dr. Abbington's career was defined by his groundbreaking work at the intersection of music, theology, and African American church traditions. Born in 1960 in Gary, West Virginia, he studied music at Morehouse College before earning advanced degrees at the University of Michigan. He went on to hold prominent academic appointments at Morgan State University, Shaw University, and Emory University's Candler School of Theology, where he taught for nearly two decades. In July 2025, he began a new chapter as the inaugural Joseph B. Bethea Professor of the Practice of Sacred Music and Black Church Studies at Duke Divinity School.

Beyond academia, Abbington served the wider church with distinction. For over 25 years, he was Executive Editor of the African American Church Music Series with GIA Publications, where he elevated and published the works of countless Black composers. He co-directed the Hampton University Ministers' and Musicians' Conference, one of the nation's most influential gatherings of church leaders, and also served as national music director for the Progressive National Baptist Convention and the NAACP. His many publications, including Let Mt. Zion Rejoice: Music in the African American Church and the two-volume Readings in African American Church Music and Worship, remain essential resources for pastors, students, and musicians.

Recognized internationally as a leader in the field, Abbington was named a Fellow of the Hymn Society of the U.S. and Canada in 2015, its highest honor. Known for his humility and mentorship, he was deeply committed to nurturing young musicians and scholars, particularly those from underrepresented backgrounds. Colleagues and friends often remembered his request to be called simply "Jimmie," a reflection of his warm and approachable spirit.

Dr. Abbington's passing represents a profound loss to the church, the academy, and the musical world. His vision, scholarship, and devotion to worship will continue to shape congregations and classrooms for generations to come. Funeral and memorial arrangements will be announced in the coming days.

 

 

Tags : James Abbington Dr. W. James "Jimmie" Abbington Jr. Dr. W. James "Jimmie" Abbington Jr. death Dr. W. James "Jimmie" Abbington Jr. funeral