REMEMBERING:Dontavies Boatwright
Photo: Courtesy of B&B Mgmt
In the wake of the death of gospel recording artist and second season “Sunday Best” television show competition finalist, Dontavies Boatwright’s life is still being celebrated. He was known as a “gentle giant” in heart, spirit and life honoring the Lord in all of his works. Boatwright was also dubbed an “angel among men.” With his 6’4” stature and huge bright smile, he never ceased to lure people with his many talents the greatest among them was singing. His deep, sultry sound made you wonder if the heavens opened up and let you in.
According to the Examiner, the last three years since “his appearance on “Sunday Best”, Boatwright sang at various gospel industry events and also served as s radio personality in Florida.” He also performed in local plays such as The Stage Aurora’s 2012 production of “The Color Purple.” His long awaited single, “Glory to Glory” was released only two months before his death.
After attending the 2-day home-going celebration and memorial service on November 16-17, 2012 and rejoicing in their loss, friends who knew him at the onset of his musical and theatrical career reflected and spoke intimately about their moments with Boatwright:
“Dontavies …” “… was an amazing talent. The only thing that triumphed his talent was his character. He was a man of integrity and substance.” -Samelia R. Adams, Director, Real Woman Blues Stage Play
“My friend, Dontavies Boatwright, was many things to many people.” “… Through music, theatre, or preaching, he gave his all in everything he did with dignity and pride. His golden smile and friendship will truly be missed.” -Akia
Uwanda, Singer/Actress/Friend
(L)Akia Uwanda (R) Samelia Adams
Also, in his honor, “A Concert For A Cause” was held December 19, 2012 in Washington DC at the Historic Howard Theater. Y’anna Crawley, winner of season II of “Sunday Best” hosted a benefit, for the Dontavies Boatwright Scholarship Fund where for the first time since the competition the top five finalists performed. Y’anna announced on her Facebook fan page, “We’ll be honoring the life of our Brother Dontavies Boatwright in a night of musical tribute.” Perfoming alongside, Y’anna Crawley, were artists Clifton Ross, John McClure, Zebulon Ellis, and Latice Crawford.
Although Boatwright will be missed, he has gone home from earthly glory to heavenly glory to hear the Father say…well done, Dontavies, well done. Boatwright died on November 8, 2012 from a heart attack. He was 34.
