Watkins Funeral Home - McDonough Chapel

Obituary For Mrs. Vicki Anderson-Byrd

Mrs. Lecia Collette of Jonesboro, Georgia entered into rest on July 3, 2023.

Final Funeral Service arrangements trusted to: Lockwood Funeral Home, 9402 Lockwood Drive, Houston, Texas 77016

She was a vocal dynamo, whether supporting the Godfather of Soul, or showing off her stuff at the front of the stage. Tonight we say a sad goodbye to singer supreme Vicki Anderson-Byrd, at age 83.

The Houston-born singer possessed the kind of church-inspired voice that was sometimes compared to Aretha Franklin. James Brown heard that voice and had to have her as part of his supporting cast in 1965. She earned praise from both Brown and her peers through her nearly a decade touring with him as his main background singer.

Anderson also released her own material as a solo singer, most notably the feminist funk anthem “The Message from the Soul Sisters” in 1970.

Anderson was also part of a tremendously musical family. She married noted jazz star Bobby Byrd in the 1960s and was the mother of 90s soul singer Carleen Anderson.

Guest Book

To the entire Anderson - Byrd family. I submit to you my sincere condolence on the home going of such an outgoing and loving woman. I could say numerous things.However they would not change the devastation you each fill at time.Know she was your mother by Birth holding you nine months close to her heart. And voiced often how much she Loved Her children and grands.She was Proud of each of you. she Mothered many and many will miss her Dearly...Your memories of the time you shared can never be Erased.. Cherish Them and hold on to Them..I know I will miss her She will Forever be a part. Of life..Keeping each of you uplifted in continual Prayer...

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Our staff will continue to keep your family in our prayers. We thank you for allowing us to serve your family.

- Watkins Funeral Home - McDonough Chapel