March 13--  The organizer for this year's Vidalia Onion Festival "Gospel Music Fest" in downtown Vidalia died suddenly at his home on Taylor Springs Road Wednesday morning.

Paula Toole of the Downtown Vidalia Association says Rickey Palmer in his role as "Pilgrim, The Clown" was downtown last Friday promoting the Gospel Sing which will feature "The Dixie Sonlighters" and other groups from around the state who have been invited to perform.

Rickey's wife, Mary, says the sing will go on as scheduled and she will host, "because Rickey would have wanted me to."

The sing will be held in Meadows Street Park April 19-20.

Paula says anyone who can help the family defray funeral expenses is urged to contact the Ronald V. Hall Funeral Home in Vidalia, 537-7877.