Tayari's Blog: The Blogosphere Mourns Bebe Moore Campbell

Comment #1, by Dallen1505

I knew Bebe Moore Campbell a very long time ago. We were both in the John Oliver Killens Writers Guild on Howard University’s campus. She was infact, pregnant with Maia . I remember when she read her first published short story ‘The Shopping Trip” in that workshop before Essence bought it. We laughed so hard I don’t think we gave her any worthwhile critique that week. But that was how it was when she read. You forgot what it was you were supposed to be doing and just enjoyed her work. We knew than that she was something special. I read the tributes and accolades to Bebe and I know they are well deserved and fitting….but I remember her quiet presence and patience with me when I read my work in a workshop that I was lucky and blessed to be a part of. I remember a down to earth woman who was serious and dedicated to her art. I remember the warmest, most genuine smile from one of the nicest women I am ever going to meet and my heart hurts so that I can hardly stand it. Over the years, whenever I would tell people that I knew Bebe Campbell they would eye whatever uniform I happened to be wearing and give me the “crazy person” look. And I guess the look was justified because I was fifteen when I walked into that workshop and she has done so much and I so little since. And though, on one of her last weekends living in the area a bunch of us took her to a Mexican restaurant in Adams Morgan I scribbled her address down when she moved to LA I never acted on it over the years because I didn’t want to seem like a “groupie.” But I was so proud of her and so thankful for the blessing of being in close proximity of her talent. And I am so hurt on this day that I don’t know what to do....C. Miner

Comment #2, by Judy

Tayari, this is why I love your blog so very much. I've been busy and couldn't check until today -- when I saw your posting about Bebe Moore Campbell. Ever since I read her statement on her own web page about her surgery, I've been checking regularly for some news. She was so hopeful about her recovery, never mentioning exactly what she was being treated for. I sent a message to her husband, promising to keep her in my prayers, and he sent a beautiful response. I never doubted she'd be back, and didn't wonder when such news was not forthcoming for so long. When I read your blog today, I felt like one of the family had passed. Only 56.

I met Campbell once and was so impressed by her presence, her warmth, her style and grace. The comment before mine is precious, and I'm sure Bebe has read it.

Thank God she was here and left her wonderful writings behind. Apparently, her work was done, and she has returned to spirit. May she be singing in the comeback choir with Toni Cade! God rest both of these tremendous spirits and mentors.