Smoky Mountain News

Lessie Williams, a well-known and nationally recognized gospel singer, will give a concert of inspirational music at 7 p.m. Oct. 30 at the Community Services Building in Sylva. The performance is a fundraiser for the new Jackson County library.

Williams’ ministerial music has carried her to prisons, nursing homes, funerals and banquets, in addition to many churches and revivals. She began singing the songs of artists including Aretha Franklin and Sam Cook around age 11, but turned to gospel, joining the ministry at the age of 19 and preaching her first sermon in March 1970.

“God has taken me many different ways to bring me full circle into an evangelistic music ministry,” Williams said.

She has produced four albums – “God Changed Me In Time,” 2008; “Jesus Is My Everything,” 2003; “I Made It Over,” 1992; “Jesus is Mine,” 1984.

“Lessie’s brand of gospel is honest, exciting and bears a strong witness to all who hear it,” said Loretta Ragan, who produces lead sheets for Williams’ self-written lyrics and music.

During the concert, fundraisers will pass the plate asking for contributions to support the new library complex.

“Your contribution is a way to thank Lessie for donating her time and to help the Friends raise funds to match the SECU Foundation Challenge Grant. It will be an inspiring evening, and we are confident folks will be generous.” says Mary Selzer, Co-chair of the Campaign Steering Committee.

For those unable to attend the concert, contributions to the New Library Fund can be made in person at the Friends of the Library Used Book Store or at the Jackson County Public Library, both located on Main Street in Sylva. They can also be mailed to: Friends of the Jackson County Main Library; P.O. Box 825; Sylva, NC 28779-0825.

For more information, visit the Friends’ website at: www.fojcml.org or call Connie Terry, campaign coordinator at 828.507.0476.