Jester Hairston
Jester Hairston | |
|---|---|
Hairston as Henry Van Porter on The Amos 'n' Andy Show, 1951 | |
| Born | Jester Joseph Hairston July 9, 1901 |
| Died | January 18, 2000 (aged 98) Los Angeles, California, U.S. |
| Resting place | Inglewood Park Cemetery |
| Other names | Jasper J. Hairston Jester J. Hairston |
| Occupations |
|
| Years active | 1936–1999 |
| Spouse |
Isabelle Margaret Swanigan
(m. 1939; died 1986) |
Jester Joseph Hairston (July 9, 1901 – January 18, 2000) was an American composer, songwriter, arranger, choral conductor and actor. He was regarded as a leading expert on black spirituals and choral music. His notable compositions include "Amen", a gospel-tinged theme from the film Lilies of the Field and a 1964 hit for the Impressions, and the Christmas song "Mary's Boy Child".