NEWS

Kenny Bishop, performs during the memorial service for Kentucky State Supreme Court Justice William E. McAnulty, Jr.

09/11/07
KENNY BISHOP PERFORMS AT JUSTICE'S MEMORIAL SERVICE
FRANKFORT, KY - Southern Gospel recording artist Kenny Bishop was one of the featured performers at a memorial for former Kentucky Supreme Court Justice William E. McAnulty, Jr. The service took place in the rotunda of the Kentucky State Capitol in Frankfort on September 11th.

"Justice McAnulty was a remarkable thinker and a very prudent jurist," Bishop said. "I'll never forget his words during his investiture when he told us, 'the debate in this chamber will be great, but the results will be pure.' Justice McAnulty was simply honorable and fair in every way. I was very, very honored to be a part the service that honored his life and contribution."

Justice McAnulty was the first African-American to serve on Kentucky's highest court. He was appointed to the bench in 2006 by Governor Ernie Fletcher. He then won a full 8 year term during this past November's general election. In June of 2007 McAnulty was diagnosed with lung cancer that had spread to his brain. He blamed the illness on years of smoking, and didn't shirk responsibility saying, "I'm paying the piper. I ain't a victim and I ain't going to whine." He died on August 23rd at his home in Louisville. He was 59.

Bishop closed the memorial with the sounding of the chime and an a cappella performance of "The Lord's Prayer." "I've had the honor of singing this great song at every kind of function and official event," Bishop said. "But sharing the words of peace and reliance on the God who sustains us and comforts us in such times, makes the message even more remarkable."

Kentucky Governor Ernie Fletcher and State Supreme Court Chief Justice Joseph E. Lambert spoke at the service. Other performers included the Kentucky State University choir and Freda Holt of the Louisville Metro Police Department. The service was attended by Justice McAnulty's family, several state cabinet officials, former and current state supreme court justices and other dignitaries.