Robert James Townsend, Sr.

Robert James Townsend, Sr. was born January 25, 1934 in Blytheville, Arkansas to the union of Lady B. Townsend and Sylvester Townsend. Robert made his peaceable transition on Wednesday, March 2, 2016 at 2:20 a.m. Robert, a replica of God's artistry, expertise and talent, had an overflowing and fervent love for education, music, and God's people. Robert, affectionately known as ""Brother"" or ""Mr. T,"" spent a lifetime teaching, motivating, mentoring individuals to play organ and piano; as well as composing music, organizing choirs or serving as a musician for well-known community talent and local churches. In the 60's, Robert did freelance electronic jobs, yet, there was something more he sought. He had learned to play organ and piano at age 7, and over time, his talent continued to be perfected, and his passion grew. Multiple doors of opportunity provided access for him to teach organ and piano in local communities. In the early 70's, individuals would inquire, ""Who is this man? How is he able to make that organ talk?"" The manifestation of God's anointing was evident when he played. This led to him, being one of the most sought after musicians in many states-along with composing, singing, and recording Albums with Bethel Pentecostal Church in Blue Island, Illinois. Robert also shared a love of interpreting biblical stories. He'd ask, ""Do you know your Bible?"" He enjoyed sharing Bible puzzles, Bible facts, trivia, riddles, hymns, and various lessons he learned in life. His enjoyment for life, love, and commitment was witnessed and displayed in his marriage of 16 years to Lucendia Townsend, fondly known as ""Lou."" Lucendia and Robert ministered God's power and presence through serving others, loving others, and making themselves available to those in need. Having achieved numerous personal, professional and spiritual accomplishments, Robert's greatest affections included his marriage to Lucendia, his children, family, friends, and students. Life with Christ: At a young age, Robert's mother and family relocated to the Northside of Chicago. He began elementary school at Jenner Elementary School, but as believers of the Nation of Islam, the remainder of his elementary and high school years were rooted in the Nation of Islam's education system and curriculum. Though Robert's parents raised him in the Muslim faith, during his adult years, he chose to accept Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior. He loved the Lord, and was a missionary for the Kingdom of God and Disciple of Christ. Passion for Education: Robert taught more than 70 individuals during his lifetime to play piano. His longevity in teaching, and his doctorate degree in Music is evidence that his calling in music was specific and definite. Robert played music from more than 60 years. He has a great legacy of individuals who are honored to have learned from one of ""the best."" Robert was preceded in death by his mother and father. Robert leaves to honor and cherish his loving memory, his wife, Lucendia Townsend, Denver, CO; his four children, Robena Tomlinson, of Fort Hood, TX, Robert Townsend, Jr. (Terrie), of Richmond, VA, Tracy Townsend-Walker of Sauk Village, IL, and Tanya Townsend of Sauk Village, IL; two sisters, Rosa L. Robinson, of Security, CO, and Carrie M. McCellans, of Memphis, TN; grandchildren, great grandchildren, God-children, and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family members, a close friend, Sue Tatum, and a special friend, Pastor Peter V. Contreras. Public viewing will take place on Thursday, March 10th from 4:00-8:00 p.m. at Horan & McConaty Funeral Home (11150 E. Dartmouth Ave., Aurora, CO 80014). Services for Robert will be held the following day, Friday, March 11th at 10:00 a.m., also at Horan & McConaty, Aurora, CO. The family will be holding a reception following the services at a separate location. Please leave condolences below for the family of Mr. Townsend.