Jesse Prather Jr. Remembered for Resilience and Talent in Alton

ALTON — Sheila Goins, wife of Alton Mayor David Goins, led a tribute Sunday, Jan. 18, 2026, at Tabernacle Baptist Church honoring Jesse Prather Jr. during the NAACP’s Dr. King Salute event.

The gathering on Jan. 18, 2026, recognized Prather, a self-taught musician and longtime member of the Riverbend Community Gospel Choir, who died on May 11, 2025. Prather, born Aug. 16, 1978, was remembered for his resilience and musical talent that deeply impacted the local community.

“As we gather today to honor the memory of our beloved Jesse Prather Jr., I would like to acknowledge everyone in their respectful places, including but not limited to the Angel of his house, Rev. John Buford, the Honorable Mayor Goins, the leaders of the NAACP, including President Leon Smallwood, our dignitaries, including Senator Chris Belt and the Prather family,” Sheila Goins said during the tribute.

Prather was a founding member of the Riverbend Community Gospel Choir, participating for nearly 24 years. Goins noted that this was the first year the choir took part in the NAACP commemoration without him, saying, “His absence is profoundly felt, but his spirit continues to inspire us as we sing.”

Describing Prather as a “prodigy” who overcame physical challenges, Goins said, “Born with his hands closed, he overcame immense challenges, through faith and determination, embodying the true essence of resilience. He was the ‘GOAT’ in our eyes, a title he earned through his dedication and unparalleled talent.”

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The tribute also connected Prather’s legacy to that of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., stating that while their impacts cannot be compared, both were “great men in their own rights.” Prather’s homegoing celebration drew over 5,000 attendees from diverse backgrounds, reflecting his influence through music.

Participants wore blue during the event, a color Goins explained “holds special significance — it represents peace, trust and loyalty, qualities that Jesse embodied.” Prather’s niece, Jimiya Prather, performed a song in his honor.

Goins concluded, “As we prepare to sing today, let us remember Jesse’s legacy in every word. His spirit will forever be present in our songs, reminding us of the love and joy he brought to the choir. We will continue giving God praise and ensuring that his musical legacy lives on through us.”

The event highlighted both the ongoing civil rights legacy of Dr. King and the enduring musical contributions of Jesse Prather Jr. to the Alton community.

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