October 4, 2024 #1 Local News, Forum, Information and Event Source for Venice Beach, California.

Remembering a Man of Honor: Oscar Duncan

On this past Friday, friends and family came to First Baptist Church in Venice to celebrate the life of Oscar Patrice Duncan aka Choirboy. The church and surrounding streets were filled to capacity. Included in those that came or sent condolences were Stevie Wonder, the well-known gospel artist Kirk Franklin, President Obama and our own Venice Council. I saw teens holding each other and weeping, many of which I am sure were from the Boys & Girls Club of Venice.

Oscar Duncan

Led by various ministers including those from the Venice community and Oscar’s home church, Greater Zion in Compton, family and close friends walked from his home to the church. Even his frail grandmother walked, wanting to be a show of strength on that day. A young minister blew a horn along the way reminding me of the blowing of the shofur – a sound of triumph for the inspiring life of Choirboy and at the same time a wake up call and mournful wail for the loss of a son. Another young minister carried a shield (the “shield of faith” – Eph. 6:16) and a sword (“For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword”- Heb. 4:12) – appropriate symbols for Oscar, a youth pastor who loved God, spread the love of God and practiced what he preached.

Once the service began, there was praise and worship, the reading of scriptures, acknowledgments, resolutions, remarks, songs, a slide show, the eulogy, and then it was time to say goodbye …

Ironically (or prophetically), on June 4, 2002, exactly 10 years before Oscar was taken from us on June 4, 2012, he wrote an essay for his 5th period English class entitled Fate. “Life is like a fork in the road, you either go straight down the good or bad road. . . . I turn to my God for answers when I don’t know the way. I ask him to show me the way and I often wonder if I can change my own fate. …Sometimes I wonder how my life is going to turn out … I want to know if my fate is to die young or old, if my fate is going to make me famous, middle class or poor …”

Oscar’s love, influence and work spread far and wide. In his 23 years, he has left a tremendous legacy. We will miss your presence, your ministry and your beautiful smile. How marvelous it must be to stand before the Lord hearing the words, “Well done, good and faithful servant!”

Alma Collins

Related Posts

Is California Going to Legalize Gambling in 2024/2025?

June 5, 2024

June 5, 2024

The issue of gambling legalization in California has been a topic of debate for many years. As the largest state...

Los Angeles Experience Gifts for People Who Don’t Want More Clutter

May 15, 2024

May 15, 2024

Just like you, most gift recipients in Los Angeles don’t want more stuff. The Los Angeles experience gifts on this...

California: Pioneering the Future of Online and Digital Payments

January 11, 2024

January 11, 2024

In the fast-paced digital economy of the 21st century, California has emerged as a powerhouse in the realm of online...

A Guide to the Current Gambling Situation in Canada

January 1, 2024

January 1, 2024

For centuries, gambling has woven itself into the fabric of human culture; in recent years–marking an era where evolution pervades...

Smart Strategies to Save Money in Your Entertainment Budget

December 30, 2023

December 30, 2023

Many individuals and families in today’s fast-paced world share a common goal: finding ways to save money. The entertainment budget...

California’s top sports teams.

December 1, 2023

December 1, 2023

California is known worldwide for a multitude of exciting things. They’re known for their incredible beaches, glorious sunshine, and fabulous...

Your Lucky Numbers: Six Tips Towards Lottery Success

November 30, 2023

November 30, 2023

Have you ever wondered how people win money from the lottery? They may not always hit the jackpot, but they...

Five different ways to unwind.

October 1, 2023

October 1, 2023

Modern life is always busy and it can feel like your to-do list is never ending. When you’re not working,...

Over Half of Short-Term Rentals Advertised in LA Don’t Comply With City’s Home Sharing Ordinance

April 4, 2023

April 4, 2023

Better Neighbors LA report highlights the inadequacies of enforcement measures for short-term rentals in Los Angeles, calling for increased regulation...

Venice Beach Attempted Murder Suspect Arrested in West Virginia

December 22, 2022

December 22, 2022 1

Brandon Manyo Dixon arrest in West Virginia By Sam Catanzaro A man has been arrested for the attempted murder of...

The Current Gambling Situation in California

December 1, 2022

December 1, 2022

Here’s what to know about everything from online casinos to betting in the state. In the U.S., gambling is a...

Cancer Cartel Provides Financial Help To Cancer Patients

November 16, 2022

November 16, 2022 2

Cancer Cartel is helping cancer patients focus on their treatment, not the financial stress of living with a diagnosis. Learn...

100 Miles of Bus-Only Lanes Within Five Years on City Council Plans

October 17, 2022

October 17, 2022

L.A’s public transportation network is known for being slow due to traffic congestion. A new motion by L.A. City Council...

What Is the Most Effective Way to Sell a Used Car?

October 6, 2022

October 6, 2022

It’s no secret that selling a used car can be difficult. You have to find the right buyer, negotiate a...