Singer/songwriter Gary McSpadden, whose music career
includes time performing as part of vocal groups including The Statesmen
Quartet, Oak Ridge Boys, Imperials, Bill Gaither Trio and Gaither Vocal Band,
died April 15 in Tulsa, Oklahoma, following a battle with pancreatic cancer. He
was 77.
The son of Boyd and Helen McSpadden, he grew up in Lubbock,
Texas. In the early 1960s, McSpadden filled in for singer Jake Hess while Hess
was on medical leave from Gospel group The Statesmen Quartet. McSpadden later
joined The Oak Ridge Quartet, around the time the group changed its name to The
Oak Ridge Boys; McSpadden recorded three albums with the group.
During the mid-1960s, after Hess left The Statesmen,
McSpadden joined Hess as part of his new group, The Imperials, and recorded a
dozen albums with the group.
In 1977, McSpadden replaced Danny Gaither as part of The
Bill Gaither Trio; by 1981, he was among the first members of The Gaither Vocal
Band. McSpadden released his debut solo album in 1965 and went on to release 20
solo projects during his career.
As a songwriter, McSpadden penned songs including “Jesus
Lord To Me,” “Hallelujah Praise The Lamb” and “No Other Name But Jesus.” He
produced television series such as the Jubilee series, which was filmed in
Branson, Missouri. He also produced and appeared in several music concerts in
Branson in the 1990s and 2000s.
McSpadden and his wife Carol led Faith & Wisdom Church
in Branson, Missouri. Carol wrote the following message on the church’s
Facebook page:
As most of you know Gary and I have been in Tulsa at the
Cancer Treatment Center of America. Gary has been battling cancer along with
other complications over the last several weeks. This has been a quick and
difficult journey we have been on. We knew this week that God had a plan and
his healing would be here on earth or in heaven. As of 8:40 AM Pastor passed
peacefully surrounded by his family into the arms of God.
2 Timothy 4:7 says I have fought a good fight I have
finished my course and I have kept the faith. Pastor Gary fought hard, finished
the race and was an unbelievable man of faith. I would like to thank all the
Faith and Wisdom church family and all the many friends who have prayed with us
during this time. Due to extenuating circumstances with Covid 19 we are working
on plans for a celebration of life at a later date. We will be communicating
those plans as they develop.
Love you and thank you,
Carol