Approximately 3,500 fans, friends, colleagues, music industry executives, recording artists and family members gathered on the dreary morning of December 13, 2007 at the Robert A. Bowers Civic Center to mourn the passing and celebrate the short life of Chad "Pimp C" Butler.  The event was covered by national news outlets, television networks and tabloids, but the press kept a respectful distance and were not allowed inside the convention center.

The public celebration of the life of UGK founder Pimp C featured gospel music performances, speeches and a sermon.  Speaking first was Deloris Prince, the Mayor of Pimp C's home town of Port Arthur, Texas.  Mayor Prince noted that she had known Chad since he was in high school, and she read a proclamation from the city which detailed his many accomplishments in the field of music.  Jeff Sledge, a representative of  UGK's record label, Jive Records, spoke next.  Sledge regaled the large audience with funny stories of his 15 year friendship with Pimp C since 1992, when Sledge was first introduced to the group and was instrumental in signing them to the label.

An amazingly composed speech by Pimp C's mother, Weslyn "Mama Wes" Monroe, followed.  Mama Wes noted that she was neither sad nor worried, because she feels that Pimp is at rest and looking down on all of us.  She asked the listeners to encourage and support Pimp's widow, Chinara, and his three children, Lil' Chad, Dahcory and Christian.  Mama Wes thanked the audience for their cards and calls, and especially for the mountains of food that had been sent to the family.  Putting on her best southern accent, she said that "C" was now in heaven, telling Tupac to move over because "the Soooouuuuuuth is here".  This drew a great roar of approval from the gathered mourners.

Following Mama Wes was the master of ceremonies, Dr. John R. Adolph, Pastor of Pimp C's church, the Antioch Missionary Baptist Church in Beaumont, Texas.  Dr. Adolph first asked many in the audience to stand and be recognized, including music industry professionals (like this reporter); musicians who had played with Pimp C over the years; other members of the Clergy, etc.  The Pastor then gave the audience an impassioned sermon based on the theme that "It's tough out here for a Pimp."  Pastor Adolph took the opportunity not just to deliver a fire and brimstone retrospective of Pimp C's life and times, but linked Pimp C's recent turnaround and steps towards maturity since his release from incarceration to every member of the audience.  The Pastor showed the gathered listeners that each person can use Pimp C as an example to better themselves and to buoy others who might be adrift in their world.  Finally, the Pastor invited everyone to stand, hold hands, and move closer to the casket in order to wish Pimp C a safe ride into the beyond.  The two hour event closed on an uplifting note, as Bun B and nine other pallbearers guided Pimp C's casket towards the Greenlawn Memorial Park for entombment.

Many celebrities were in attendance, but this event was only about one star and his memory.  Pimp C is the most notable entertainer from Port Arthur to pass away since Janis Joplin, and the tremendous support indicated his popularity and influence on the city and the southern rap scene in general.  Most attendees left the funeral with uplifted spirits rather than saddened looks on their faces. 

Peace & Love,

Bernard M. Resnick, Esq., P.C.
www.bernardresnick.com