Preacher, prosecutor and civil rights crusader Andrew Hairston dies at 92
In the courtroom and in the pulpit, Andrew Hairston “tells…
A life in song and spirit
Dallas-area Christian left behind a legacy and ministry of music.
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When I arrived in Terrell, Texas, in 1988, I stepped into a world brimming with voices that seemed borrowed from heaven. Among them was Harold Robinson — a man whose spirit was as profound as his song.
A proud alumnus of Southwestern Christian College, Robinson remained an indelible part of its musical legacy, tied not just by history but by the bonds of friendship and faith.
Harold Robinson, retired director of the Dallas Church of Christ chorus and minister of music for the Central Pointe Church of Christ in Dallas, died March 25.
He was more than a gifted singer — he was a bridge between generations of musicians and worshipers.
Robinson belonged to the Dallas musical contingent that embraced students like me, welcoming us into a tradition of excellence and devotion. Through his warmth and generosity, he became not only a mentor but a brother in spirit.
In the 1980s, two choirs stood at the pinnacle of Dallas’ a cappella gospel tradition: Acappella Alliance, under the direction of Clifford Mills, and the Dallas West Church of Christ chorus, where Robinson was one of three directors.
These groups didn’t just perform — they moved souls. They lifted spirits. They turned sanctuaries into sanctuaries of sound, where harmonies carried prayers to the heavens.
Watching Robinson direct was like witnessing a master painter at work. His leadership was quiet yet commanding, his voice a vessel for something far greater than melody alone. Every note he sang was steeped in love — love for the Lord, for his church and for those who had the privilege of listening.
As minister of music at Dallas West, Robinson stood alongside the late Reginald Dulin, a preacher whose words could shake the very foundation of a church.
Together, they were a force of nature. Dulin’s sermons called souls to their feet, and Robinson’s music lifted them higher still.
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I will never forget the revival in Cincinnati when Robinson and Dulin’s son, Rodney, came to lead worship. The church was overflowing long before the service began — people arriving two hours early just to claim a seat.
It wasn’t enough. Every church van from across the city was summoned to shuttle in worshipers. The crowd came expectant and left transformed.
“That night, something holy moved through the air. Robinson and Rodney Dulin didn’t just lead a service; they ushered us into the presence of God.”
That night, something holy moved through the air. Robinson and Rodney Dulin didn’t just lead a service; they ushered us into the presence of God.
And when Robinson opened his mouth to sing — Lord, have mercy — everything shifted. His voice was not just sound but spirit, not just music but ministry. It was anointed — unmistakably so.
Robinson possessed a rare gift, but he never hoarded it. He gave it freely, leaving every room fuller than he found it. His kindness mirrored his artistry — effortless, abundant, sincere.
The last time I saw Harold Robinson, we reminisced about days gone by and spoke of seeing each other again soon. Even in something as simple as a text message, asking for Clifford Mills’ number, Harold responded as he always did — with warmth and encouragement.
That was Harold — steadfast, gracious, giving until the end. He died on March 25, 2025, at age 68.
Rest well, my friend. When my time comes, I’ll be listening for your voice in the heavenly chorus. Until then, sing on.
Memorial arrangements will be announced in the coming days.
JOHN EDMERSON is a former member of The Christian Chronicle’s Editorial Board. He serves as associate minister for the Figueroa Church of Christ in Los Angeles. He is also a well-known song writer among Churches of Christ.
