R.I.P., Sullivan Pugh of the Consolers

By: Joseph Middleton

Sullivan Pugh, the guitar playing half of the husband and wife gospel duo, the Consolers, died December 30, 2010 at his home in Miami at the age of 85. During the 1950s and 60s, Sullivan and his wife, Iola, as the Consolers reached their height of popularity with songs such as "Give Me My Flowers", "Waiting for My Child", and "May the Work I've Done Speak for Me." Their career as a duo stretched from 1953 until Iola's death in 1994. During their career, the Consolers recorded for the Glory and DeLuxe record labels, Nashboro Records, Savoy/Malaco Records, and appeared at the 1972 Newport Jazz Festival. In 2002, Sullivan and Iola (posthumously) were awarded with the Florida Folk Heritage Award. Sullivan continued to sing into his later years, even making an appearance on Malaco's "Gospel Legends" DVD in 2004. Sullivan was also actively involved in The Consolers Progressive Charity Club, an organization which benefited the needy.

There will be two viewings and a funeral service for Mr. Pugh. The information is as follows.

Brother Sullivan S. Pugh, 85, gospel recording artist best known for such hits as “May The Work I’ve Done,” “Give Me My Flowers,” “Waiting For My Child” and “Somewhere Around Gods Throne,” died Dec. 30, 2010, at home surrounded by his wife and family.

Services: Abundant Favor Mortuary, Inc. 115 E. 30th St., Bradenton

First viewing: 5-9 p.m. Jan. 6 at Mount Olive Missionary Baptist Church, 6316 S.W. 59th Place, South Miami

Second viewing: 5-9 p.m. Jan. 7 , United Christian Fellowship, 2310 N.W. 58th Street, Miami

Funeral: 11 a.m. Jan. 8, Bethel Apostolic Temple, 1855 N.W. 119th Street.

Another soldier gone home. Rest in peace Sullivan Pugh.