The family of Cicely Tyson has announced that the late actress will have an official public viewing on from 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Monday, February 15, in New York City. Tyson will be lying in repose at Abyssinian Baptist Church, 132 Odell Clark Place (formerly 138th St). Covid-19 protocols will be in place for this walk-by. Masks and social distancing are mandatory, and no photographs will be permitted.

Tyson died January 28 at age 96. She gained an Oscar nomination for her role as the sharecropper’s wife in Sounder, won multiple Emmys including two for The Autobiography of Miss Jane Pittman and won a Tony Award for The Trip to Bountiful. After Tyson’s death, tributes came rolling in from all over Hollywood and around the world. She was considered “one the most beautiful and talented women of her generation.” But also as the pioneer who opened door to all next generation of black women as actresses. She Made Sure Her Actions Would Impact Those Who Followed. Barack Obama Praises ‘Trailblazer’; Ava DuVernay, Kamala Harris, Regina King, Tyler Perry, Viola Davis, Shonda Rhimes & More Applaud Icon’s ‘Power & Grace. Her presence onscreen was nothing short of mesmerizing. Her exceptional gift was the ability to pervade each character she portrayed with immense humanity which made them cherished and memorable to audiences around the world.”

Before dying she was promoting vigorously her memoirs Just”as I am” which  is my truth,” Tyson said.

Cicely Tyson’s New Memoir Hits No. 1 After Icon’s Death; ‘Just As I Am’ Out Of Stock On Amazon  

Mere hours after Cicely Tyson’s death, the multi-award winning actress’ just-published memoir is the bestselling book in America. The rise of Tyson’s book actually dethroned inaugural poet Amanda Gorman, who has held the top spot since blowing the nation’s collective and individual wigs off with her “The Hill We Climb” recitation.

But before you despair, an audio version of the memoir is still available from Amazon and others. To make that an even more alluring prospect, Tyson herself narrates in part on the audiobook, along with her How To Get Away with Murder co-star Viola Davis and Robin Miles. But  before you despair, an audio version of the memoir is still available from Amazon and others. To make that an even more alluring prospect, Tyson herself narrates in part on the audiobook, along with her How To Get Away with Murder co-star Viola Davis and Robin Miles.

During this time of a Great loss. I rejoice in the fact that Ms.Tyson has left a powerful legacy of impact of a Woman of tremendous Class, Dignity, Respect and Inspiration. A Black Woman to be Admired. You were a Trailblazer, motivator, a strong woman by all standards. You set the bar higher than anyone could ever imagine. Miss Cicely, you deserve all God’s gracious blessings. Your legacy will live on forever. We will miss you so very much. We love you.  Maya Angelou, Aretha Franklin and Now Cicely Tyson. It’s gonna be a great reunion.  My thoughts and prayers are with the family, friends, loved ones, and all whose lives she touched. Miss Tyson, you said it all, “I done my best.” Yes you did. You fought the good fight. You kept the faith. You ran the race. You finished your course. Your work here is done. May  your beautiful soul continue to rest.

Rest well, love until we meet again.

 

By Alizé Utteryn 04/02/2021