Grace McAlister
Reporter1@riverbendnews.org
The first-ever Diane Osburn Memorial Gospel Festival will take place from Friday, Nov. 11 to Sunday, Nov. 13, at Ellie Ray’s RV Resort.
Diane passed away in her home with her husband, Rev. Robert Osburn, by her side in early 2022 at the age of 67. Two weeks before her death, she informed Robert that she wanted to dine at Ellie Ray’s RV Resort. Robert was apprehensive about dining there, as he is a pastor at Beachville Advent Christian Church. “It’s a bar, I couldn’t go there,” he remarked. Despite his apprehension, Robert and his wife went to dinner at Ellie Ray’s. While there, Robert met Tom Sturgeon, who informed Robert that he wanted to have a gospel sing at Ellie Ray’s.
Not long after this interaction, Robert and Sturgeon began planning the first annual Diane Osburn Memorial Gospel Music Festival. Entry to the festival is free and there are activities for all to enjoy.
For youth, there will be rock climbing, bounce houses, a campfire, s’mores and casting lessons for those who are looking to improve their fishing skills. Additionally, there will be food vendors, live entertainment– including music and speakers, youth group presentations and baptismal service.
The main line-up will feature Simple Faith, Psalms 101 and Peace River. Additional acts include O'Brien Baptist Choir, Josh Edwards, David and Sherry Van Husein and other local talents. Speakers will include Schawn Osburn, Keto Gonzalez and Lesa Gonzalez. Sunday morning, at 10:30 a.m., there will be a baptismal service.
“I believe it’s going to be a great event,” Robert said. For more information, call Rev. Robert Osburn at (470) 313-4273 or email robtosburn@gmail.com. Ellie Ray’s is located at 3349 NW 110th St., in Branford.