Jessie Mae Hemphill RIP

MEMPHIS, Tenn. - Jessie Mae Hemphill, whose award-winning Blues career lasted decades and was heavily influenced by her upbringing in rural Mississippi, has died, a spokeswoman for the singer's foundation said. She was 71.

Jessie Mae was laid to rest in the Senatobia, Mississippi, area after services offering musical tributes from her friends. Check Richard Johnston's website for particulars on how her friends and fans can help defray her funeral expenses.

Jessie Mae's Wikipedia entry is here. Music samples are here. She was a sweet woman, really.

UPDATE: Memphis Commercial Appeal story; The New York Times notes her passing.